By Special Correspondent
Published: June 24, 2025
In a dramatic overnight development, U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that a “complete and total ceasefire” has been agreed between Iran and Israel, just hours after Iran launched ballistic missiles at the U.S. airbase in Qatar in response to Israeli airstrikes on its nuclear facilities.
“Congratulations world, it’s time for peace!” — President Trump declared in a social media post and noting that no Americans or Qataris were harmed in the retaliatory strikes.
“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,’” Trump added in a social media post.
However, despite the optimism in Washington, neither Tehran nor Tel Aviv has officially confirmed the ceasefire deal. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted on X (formerly Twitter), saying:
“There is no ceasefire agreement yet. However, if Israel halts its illegal aggression by 4:00 AM, Iran has no intention to continue its military response.”
Iran’s Missiles and the Message
Late Monday night, Iran fired 14 missiles at the Al Udeid Airbase in Qatar, where U.S. forces are stationed. According to Trump, 13 missiles were intercepted while the 14th fell in a “nonthreatening direction.” Iranian state media called it a “successful and proportionate response” to Israel’s attacks on Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear sites on Saturday.
In Tehran, residents reported terrifying scenes as sirens blared and air defenses responded to an earlier Israeli barrage.
Israeli Silence, But A Lull in Bombardment
Despite no official statement from the Israeli government, reports suggest that after 4:00 AM local time, Israel has not carried out further strikes on Iranian territory, marking an unofficial pause in hostilities.
Meanwhile, Israeli emergency services reported three casualties from Iranian missile fire in Tel Aviv’s outskirts — suggesting Iran did, in fact, target Israeli soil, raising questions about the durability of the proposed ceasefire.
Trump’s Pivot: Peace or Strategy?
President Trump’s tone represents a dramatic shift from his earlier rhetoric. Just days ago, he threatened to “obliterate” Iran’s nuclear infrastructure — a threat he seemingly acted on. Now, Trump praises Iran’s “very weak response” and thanks Tehran for giving early notice before launching its missiles.
“Most importantly, they’ve gotten it all out of their system,” Trump posted. “Perhaps Iran can now proceed to Peace and Harmony in the Region, and I will enthusiastically encourage Israel to do the same.”
A Narrow Escape?
This may prove to be a critical off-ramp from what initially appeared to be a descent into full-scale regional war. With Qatari airspace still closed, the U.S. Embassy in Doha lifting its shelter-in-place order, and tens of thousands watching live updates, the world remains on edge, hopeful but cautious.
Whether this ceasefire holds, or merely buys time before another eruption, remains to be seen. (ST)
