U.S. President Declares Truce Effective, Urges Compliance After Missile Strikes
Ceasefire Takes Effect After 12-Day Conflict
On June 24, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump declared that a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran is "now in effect," following a 12-day conflict marked by intense missile and airstrike exchanges. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump emphasized the importance of adherence, stating, "THE CEASEFIRE IS NOW IN EFFECT. PLEASE DO NOT VIOLATE IT."
The announcement comes after Iran launched several waves of missiles targeting Israeli territories, killing at least seven people in southern Israel, according to Iranian state media. Israel's military confirmed that the public could leave bomb shelters after the final barrage ended.
Details of the Ceasefire Agreement
The ceasefire, brokered by Trump, is structured as a phased 24-hour process starting at approximately 0400 GMT on June 24, 2025. Key points include:
- Iran's Role: Iran agreed to halt all military operations first, as confirmed by a senior Iranian official to Reuters.
- Israel's Commitment: Israel pledged to cease hostilities 12 hours later, provided Iran refrains from further attacks, according to a White House official.
- Duration: Trump described the truce as a "complete and total ceasefire," with hopes it will lead to a permanent end to the conflict, dubbed the "12-day war."
Iranian state television reported the ceasefire began at 7:30 a.m. local time, though Israel’s government had not publicly confirmed its agreement by midday June 24.
Background: How the Conflict Escalated
The conflict erupted on June 13, 2025, when Israel launched a major military offensive against Iran, targeting its nuclear facilities. Israel, supported by U.S. airstrikes over the weekend, claimed Iran was nearing nuclear weapon capability—a charge Tehran has consistently denied. Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei asserted that if Iran pursued nuclear weapons, "world leaders wouldn't be able to stop us."
Tensions escalated further when Iran retaliated with missile strikes on a U.S. military base in Qatar, which Trump called a "weak" response. The exchange of airstrikes and missiles between Israel and Iran culminated in significant casualties and regional instability.
Brokering the Ceasefire
Trump played a central role in negotiating the truce, engaging directly with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and indirectly with Iranian officials through his team, including Vice President JD Vance. Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, also facilitated discussions with Tehran, according to Reuters.
Despite the agreement, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi initially stated there was "no agreement" unless Israel ceased its attacks by 4 a.m. Tehran time. However, Iran later confirmed its commitment to the truce, aligning with Trump’s announcement.
Why This Story Matters
The Israel-Iran ceasefire is a critical development for Middle East stability, with global implications:
- Regional Peace: A sustained truce could reduce the risk of broader conflict involving other regional powers or U.S. allies.
- Global Markets: The ceasefire has already stabilized financial and oil markets, which had been volatile due to the conflict, per Reuters.
- U.S. Foreign Policy: The agreement reinforces Trump’s image as a peacemaker, though his decision to bomb Iranian nuclear sites has sparked debate within his political base.
However, the ceasefire’s success hinges on compliance from both sides. Iran’s last-minute missile strikes and Israel’s lack of public confirmation raise concerns about the truce’s durability.
What’s Next?
Observers are closely monitoring whether Israel and Iran adhere to the ceasefire terms. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on June 23 that Israel had achieved its objectives, including neutralizing Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile threats. Meanwhile, Iran’s leadership has signaled readiness to defend against any violations.
The international community, including Qatar and the U.S., will likely continue diplomatic efforts to ensure the truce holds. If successful, this ceasefire could pave the way for renewed dialogue on Iran’s nuclear program and broader Middle East peace initiatives.