Israel and Iran Agree to Ceasefire After Two Weeks of Escalating Tensions

After nearly two weeks of intense air assaults between Israel and Iran, President Donald Trump announced on social media that a ceasefire agreement has been reached, set to begin at midnight. This marks a significant step towards de-escalating the conflict that has gripped the region.

According to Trump’s announcement, the ceasefire will involve two 12-hour periods, starting with Iran at midnight EDT. Israel will then follow with a second 12-hour ceasefire, leading to an official end of the war after 24 hours.

Trump expressed optimism in his post, congratulating both countries on their “Stamina, Courage, and Intelligence” in ending the conflict. However, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Arahchi later denied the existence of a ceasefire agreement, stating that Iran would halt its response if Israel ceased strikes by a certain time.

Despite conflicting statements, Trump’s announcement came shortly after the U.S. joined Israel in launching strikes on Iranian nuclear targets. The conflict began on June 12 with Israel’s preemptive strikes on Iran’s military and nuclear facilities, citing concerns about Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

Earlier on the same day, Iran targeted a U.S. military base in Qatar with missiles, prompting fears of further escalation. However, the U.S. intercepted the missiles with assistance from Qatar, and Trump emphasized the need for de-escalation in his response to the incident.