Washington, DC [US], June 24: United States President Donald J. Trump reaffirmed that the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran is now in effect and urged both nations to respect the truce following days of escalating hostilities in the Middle East.
“The ceasefire is now in effect. Please do not violate it!” Trump posted on Truth Social, addressing the warring nations and global observers.
Background: From “Operation Rising Lion” to Ceasefire
The conflict began on June 13 when Israel launched “Operation Rising Lion”, a coordinated airstrike targeting Iranian military and nuclear sites. In retaliation, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched “Operation True Promise 3”, deploying a wave of drones and missiles at Israeli energy and defense infrastructure.
Further escalation occurred when the United States joined the conflict, carrying out “Operation Midnight Hammer”—precision airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities. Iran responded with missile attacks on US military bases in Qatar and Iraq, including the Al Udeid Air Base, the largest US installation in the region.
Trump Brokers Ceasefire with Qatar’s Help
According to Reuters, Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani played a crucial role in brokering the deal. After a phone call with US President Trump, Qatar secured Iran’s approval for the US-proposed ceasefire, following assurances from Israel that it would also comply.
Trump outlined the agreement in a previous Truth Social post:
“Iran will start the ceasefire and, upon the 12th Hour, Israel will start the ceasefire. Upon the 24th Hour, an official end to the 12-Day War will be declared.”
Breach of Truce: New Iranian Strikes Hit Israel
Despite the ceasefire announcement, Iran reportedly launched another missile strike into Israel, with The Times of Israel reporting four fatalities and multiple injuries in Beersheba after a residential building was hit.
This fresh violation raises concerns about the durability of the agreement and casts doubt on the immediate effectiveness of diplomatic efforts.
Global Stakes Remain High
The high-stakes conflict, which has drawn in regional powers and global military actors, threatens to destabilize the broader Middle East if not contained.
With the ceasefire on shaky ground, the international community is closely watching whether Iran and Israel will adhere to Trump’s 24-hour phased truce or escalate further.