Tensions between Israel and Iran have flared up again just hours after former U.S. President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between the two nations. Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz accused Iran of violating the ceasefire by launching fresh missile attacks, prompting him to order new strikes on military and government targets in Tehran. Katz called the Iranian actions a “blatant violation” of the agreement, saying Israel would continue high-intensity operations as needed.
Trump had earlier declared on Truth Social that the “ceasefire is now in effect,” claiming both sides had agreed to a two-phase truce, with Iran halting attacks first, followed by Israel 12 hours later. The announcement raised hopes of de-escalation after 12 days of intense fighting. However, within hours, Israel reported new missile alerts and sirens sounding in the north, suggesting hostilities had resumed.
Iran, however, denies any breach. Iranian military officials told state media that no missiles had been fired toward Israel since the truce began. They accused Israel of fabricating the violation to justify further aggression. Iran’s Supreme National Security Council insisted it would only fully commit to the ceasefire if Israel upheld its part.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu defended the response, stating that Israel had achieved its core military goals and would respond decisively to any threat. Meanwhile, ordinary citizens caught in the crossfire are once again forced to brace for renewed strikes, as peace hopes appear to unravel.
The international community is watching closely, with fears growing that the fragile truce may collapse completely if both sides continue trading accusations and attacks. The coming hours will be critical in determining whether this ceasefire can be salvaged or if the region will slip back into another dangerous round of conflict.
