In a surprising turn of events, President Trump declared that Israel and Iran have reached an agreement for a ceasefire. This announcement comes just hours after Iran launched missile strikes targeting a U.S. military base in Qatar in retaliation for recent American airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. While Trump's statement on Monday has yet to be confirmed by officials in either nation, it signals a potential shift in the ongoing conflict.
In a post on social media, President Trump outlined the terms of the proposed ceasefire, stating that both Israel and Iran have agreed to a staggered cessation of hostilities. He mentioned that the ceasefire is set to commence in approximately six hours, allowing both nations to conclude their ongoing missions. According to Trump, the ceasefire will last for 12 hours, at which point the conflict will be officially considered ended. "It has been fully agreed by and between Israel and Iran that there will be a Complete and Total CEASEFIRE," he wrote, indicating that the world will recognize the end of the 12-day war.
In an interview with Fox News' Bret Baier shortly after Trump’s announcement, Vice President JD Vance expressed optimism about the prospect of a long-term settlement between Iran and Israel. He suggested that the Iranian leadership is weary of ongoing conflict, stating, "I think the Iranians are at a place where they don't want to keep on fighting." Vance emphasized the need for a reset in U.S.-Iran relations, suggesting that the Trump administration aims to establish lasting peace in the region.
Earlier on Monday, Iran's state-run news agency Tasnim reported that Tehran had launched missile attacks against U.S. military installations in both Qatar and Iraq. Al Jazeera confirmed sightings of missiles over Qatar, home to the vital Al Udeid Air Base, which serves as the U.S. Central Command's forward headquarters in the Middle East. A U.S. defense official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, confirmed the missile attacks, stating that no American casualties have been reported so far.
In response to the missile attacks, Qatar's air defenses successfully intercepted the incoming threats. Qatar's Foreign Ministry condemned the attacks, labeling them a violation of its sovereignty and international law. The spokesperson for the ministry, Majed Al Ansari, affirmed that Qatar reserves the right to respond proportionately to the aggression.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern regarding the escalating conflict in the Middle East. His spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, reiterated calls for all parties to cease hostilities and highlighted the urgent need for diplomatic resolution to the crisis.
As the situation develops, President Trump has extended thanks to Iran for what he characterized as a "weak response" to the U.S. strikes on its nuclear facilities, which he claims prevented casualties. He expressed hope that Iran would now pursue peace and harmony in the region, urging Israel to do the same. With tensions high and the potential for further military action looming, the international community will be watching closely as the ceasefire takes effect.
