Despite former U.S. President Donald Trump’s declaration of a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, deadly missile attacks resumed on Tuesday, casting serious doubt on the credibility and execution of the supposed truce. Iranian state media reported new waves of missiles targeting Israel, while Israeli emergency services confirmed that three civilians had been killed by an Iranian strike in southern Israel.
Trump’s Truce Plan and Timeline
Trump had claimed on his social media platform, Truth Social, that Iran and Israel agreed to a 24-hour phased ceasefire to end their 12-day war. According to his post, Iran would halt military operations at 0400 GMT on Tuesday, with Israel following 12 hours later, concluding with a complete cessation of hostilities by the end of the day. Trump emphasized both nations had agreed to remain peaceful throughout each phase.
Tehran Denies Formal Agreement
Shortly after the announcement, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denied any official ceasefire agreement. He clarified that Iran had no plans to continue military operations only if Israel ceased its attacks by the designated time. However, he stressed that no formal truce was in place. Despite these conditions, missile strikes on Israeli territory continued, indicating a lack of alignment between the two governments.
Missile Strikes Continue Despite Ceasefire Claims
In southern Israel, three civilians were killed in a missile attack, confirmed by Magen David Adom emergency responders. Missile sirens sounded across northern Israel as Iranian state media confirmed the launch of another barrage targeting Israeli areas. Meanwhile, Tehran experienced intense explosions in both its central and northern districts, which observers described as among the most powerful since the beginning of the conflict.
Origins of the Conflict
Tensions escalated dramatically on June 13 when Israel conducted preemptive strikes on Iranian nuclear and military facilities. Iran responded by firing over 150 ballistic missiles and numerous drones at Israeli cities. In retaliation, the U.S. launched strikes that destroyed three Iranian nuclear installations, marking a dangerous escalation of the hostilities.
Iran’s Retaliation Targets U.S. Base in Qatar
Amid these developments, Iran targeted the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, a significant U.S. military hub in the region. Although the base was evacuated in anticipation of the attack, the assault highlighted Iran’s resolve to respond directly to U.S. involvement. Trump downplayed the strike, calling it “very weak” and noting that Iran had telegraphed its intentions to avoid casualties.
Tehran Frames Strike as Proportional Response
Iran’s National Security Council confirmed the missile strike on Al Udeid, calling it a direct and proportional reaction to U.S. aggression. Officials emphasized that the number of missiles launched matched the number of U.S. bombs dropped on Iranian targets, suggesting Iran sought to avoid further escalation while still asserting strength.
International Reactions Call for Calm
Leaders worldwide expressed alarm over the growing conflict. French President Emmanuel Macron called for an immediate halt to what he described as a “spiral of chaos.” China warned of possible economic consequences if tensions continued, and Russia condemned U.S. intervention. The G7 urged all parties to pursue diplomatic solutions.
Qatar Temporarily Closes Airspace
In response to Iran’s attack, Qatar briefly closed its airspace and accused Iran of blatant aggression. Though Iran insisted its targets were U.S. military facilities and not Qatari interests, residents in Doha and Lusail reported hearing loud blasts and witnessing missiles overhead.
Celebrations and Continued Casualties
Back in Iran, state media showed large crowds in central Tehran celebrating the country’s missile strikes, waving flags and chanting anti-American slogans. Simultaneously, Israeli airstrikes continued hitting Iranian infrastructure. Iran’s health ministry reported more than 400 deaths from these strikes, while official Israeli sources stated that 24 people had died due to Iran’s missile attacks.
Ceasefire in Name Only
Despite Trump’s claims, the lack of a signed agreement or mutual acknowledgment between Iran and Israel severely weakens the credibility of the ceasefire. Analysts argue that both nations may be using strategic language to position themselves favorably without committing to peace.
Uncertain Future and Global Concern
As the situation unfolds, world leaders remain on high alert, fearing a broader regional conflict. Without a formal enforcement mechanism or third-party verification, the conflict remains highly volatile. For now, civilians in both countries continue to suffer the consequences of a war that shows no signs of abating.
