US President Donald Trump. AFP
According to President Trump's post, the ceasefire agreement has been "fully agreed by and between Israel and Iran." The process is set to begin in approximately six hours from the time of the announcement, allowing both nations to conclude their current military operations.
The overnight Iranian missile strike on Al Udeid Air Base was a direct retaliation for the recent US bombings of Iranian nuclear facilities. While explosions were heard over Qatar's capital, Doha, Qatari and US officials confirmed that the missiles were successfully intercepted, resulting in no casualties or significant damage. President Trump acknowledged the Iranian strike, calling it a "very weak response" and noting that the US was given advance warning, which helped prevent any loss of life. Iran, for its part, stated the strike was calibrated to mirror the number of bombs dropped by the US on its nuclear sites and was not intended to harm its "friendly and brotherly country, Qatar."
The ceasefire agreement details a staggered de-escalation: Iran will initiate its ceasefire first, followed by Israel commencing its ceasefire upon the 12th hour. The conflict will then be officially declared "ENDED" at the 24th hour. During their respective ceasefire periods, both sides are expected to remain "PEACEFUL and RESPECTFUL."
President Trump expressed strong optimism for the success of the agreement, stating, "On the assumption that everything works as it should, which it will, I would like to congratulate both Countries, Israel and Iran, on having the Stamina, Courage, and Intelligence to end, what should be called 'THE 12 DAY WAR.'"
He emphasized the significance of this resolution, noting, "This is a War that could have gone on for years, and destroyed the entire Middle East, but it didn't, and never will!" The announcement concluded with a message of hope for the region: "God bless Israel, God bless Iran, God bless the Middle East God bless the United States."
This development marks a dramatic and rapid shift in the escalating conflict, which had seen direct military strikes between Israel, Iran, and direct US involvement. The international community had been bracing for further escalation, with concerns over rising oil prices and disrupted shipping lanes following Iran's threat to close the Strait of Hormuz. If confirmed and adhered to, this ceasefire could avert a wider, more devastating conflict in the Middle East.
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