In a tumultuous morning, Israel has accused Iran of violating a ceasefire that was reached hours earlier, following negotiations mediated by former President Donald Trump and Qatar. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz declared that the military would retaliate “forcefully” against any Iranian aggression, threatening “powerful strikes” targeting Tehran. Iran has countered these claims, asserting it has not launched any missiles towards Israel, with top Iranian security officials vowing to respond decisively to Israeli attacks.
The ceasefire officially came into effect just after 05:00 GMT on Tuesday, marked by a social media announcement from Trump, in which he urged both nations to adhere to its terms. The Israeli government indicated its acceptance of the proposal around 06:00 GMT, contingent on Iran’s pledge to cease hostilities. However, reports surfaced within hours alleging that Iran had continued its missile barrage.
Late on Monday, as the ceasefire agreement was being finalized, Iran had targeted a U.S. military base in Qatar in retaliation for perceived aggression against its nuclear capabilities. Tensions flared prior to the ceasefire when both nations exchanged substantial fire, resulting in casualties in Israel, where four were reported dead and dozens injured in Beersheba following missile strikes that Iranian media claimed were their final rounds of attack.
Following the ceasefire announcement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) quickly claimed to have identified missile launches from Iranian territory. Katz responded by describing Iran's actions as a severe breach of the ceasefire and urged the military to maintain operations against Tehran’s infrastructure. On the other hand, Iranian military officials have denied any such missile fire and have issued warnings of a retaliatory response should Israel continue its attacks.
As the situation continues to develop, both sides are set on their positions, increasing the likelihood of conflict amidst the fragile ceasefire. The international community remains on high alert as it monitors the unfolding crisis.
