The ongoing Middle East truce between Israel and Iran began to take effect Tuesday under strong diplomatic pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump. The ceasefire follows 12 intense days of aerial bombardments, which raised fears of a wider regional war and global oil disruptions.
Trump Urges Restraint
Trump publicly criticized both sides for violating the early hours of the truce but singled out Israel for unleashing strikes after the ceasefire time. He warned Israel not to continue the attacks, stating, “Bring your pilots home, now!” Trump later claimed his intervention convinced Israel to halt further operations, helping preserve the fragile agreement.
Mixed Signals from Both Sides
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian hailed the ceasefire as a “great victory” and expressed readiness to engage in diplomacy with the U.S. Meanwhile, Israel’s military chief confirmed a pause in strikes but said the campaign against Iran wasn’t over. The Israeli army announced a return to full civilian activity and reopened Ben Gurion Airport.
Read: Israel-Iran Conflict Grounds Flights and Strands Travelers
However, uncertainty clouded the truce’s future. Iran and Israel traded accusations of violating the ceasefire. Israel said it bombed a radar site near Tehran in retaliation for missiles allegedly fired by Iran hours after the truce began. Iran denied launching any missiles and said Israel continued airstrikes beyond the deadline.
Hope and Caution on the Ground
On both sides, civilians expressed cautious relief. In Iran, families began returning home after evacuating cities targeted during the conflict. In Israel, survivors expressed hope that the ceasefire marks a turning point, despite the heavy toll.
Four Israelis and nine Iranians died in final strikes just before the truce began.
Global Reaction and Market Impact
Trump, speaking en route to a NATO summit, said he did not seek regime change in Iran. “I want everything to calm down quickly,” he said. He also reiterated his stance that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons.
The ceasefire caused global oil prices to drop and stock markets to rally, signaling optimism that the worst may be over—at least for now.
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