A fragile ceasefire between Iran and Israel appears to be holding after 12 days of intense airstrikes, though new explosions in Tehran have cast doubts on its stability. U.S. President Donald Trump, who helped broker the truce, criticized both nations for early violations but expressed optimism about “promising” peace talks between Washington and Tehran.
Despite Trump’s announcement that Israel had halted strikes at his request, loud blasts were reported in Tehran, reportedly from Israeli airstrikes. Israeli officials claimed they hit a radar site in response to Iranian missile launches hours after the ceasefire began. However, Iran denied any missile activity and accused Israel of violating the agreement.
Trump’s envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, shared a hopeful tone during a Fox News interview, stating that conversations with Iran had started, both directly and through intermediaries. He stressed the U.S. goal is a comprehensive, long-term peace deal that could lead to the “resurrection” of Iran’s place in the international community.
Meanwhile, Trump’s own intelligence officials cast doubt on his claims that Iran’s nuclear program had been “obliterated” by U.S. airstrikes. A Defense Intelligence Agency report suggested the bombings only sealed entrances to some facilities without collapsing the underground infrastructure, leaving Iran’s nuclear capabilities largely intact.
Both Israel and Iran have signaled willingness to uphold the ceasefire if the other side does. However, tensions remain high. Over 600 Iranians and 28 Israelis have been killed during the conflict. Citizens in both countries, while relieved, remain cautious, hoping the current calm paves the way for genuine peace and stability in the region.