Ceasefire Announced Between Iran and Israel After Short Conflict

U.S. President Donald Trump announced a gradual ceasefire agreement between Iran and Israel, marking the official conclusion of what he referred to as “The 12 Day War.” This development occurred shortly after Iran launched missile attacks on an American military base in Qatar, a move made in retaliation for U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.

Trump revealed the ceasefire through social media, explaining that Iran would initially observe a 12-hour ceasefire, followed by Israel doing the same, resulting in a complete ceasefire within a day. He lauded the efforts of both countries for ending a conflict that, according to him, had the potential to devastate the Middle East.

The ceasefire was achieved through mediation by Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, who engaged in talks with Iranian and Israeli officials. Trump commended Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani for his successful mediation, noting that no American or Qatari personnel were injured in Iran’s missile attack on al-Udeid Air Base.

Iran launched more than a dozen missiles at the U.S. base on Monday night, in retaliation for U.S. military actions, including B2 bomber raids and Tomahawk missile strikes, targeting Iran's key nuclear sites at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. Trump previously stated that these sites were “obliterated,” significantly delaying Iran’s nuclear programs.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed approval of the progress, asserting that Israel was nearing its main objectives—disabling Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities. He highlighted that Israel aimed to avoid prolonged conflict and would cease its operations once its strategic goals were met.

U.S. Vice-President J.D. Vance characterized the ceasefire as a pivotal moment for the Middle East, describing Israel’s actions as a significant military achievement. He clarified that while regime change in Iran was not a U.S. military aim, the administration would back any peaceful shifts in that direction.

Iran agreed to the ceasefire following indirect negotiations initiated by Qatar post-missile strikes. This development suggests a regional desire to move away from prolonged conflict and towards diplomatic solutions.

Qatar has subsequently reopened its airspace, with normal activities resuming across its cities despite brief heightened security concerns. The country's Foreign Ministry called for renewed peace efforts and negotiations, urging all parties to avoid further military actions.

While the ceasefire provides temporary respite in a tense region, experts warn that lasting peace will rely on continued dialogue and mutual restraint from all involved parties.