In a rapid and tense series of diplomatic exchanges, U.S. President Donald Trump brokered a ceasefire between Israel and Iran following 12 days of escalating conflict. The ceasefire was prompted after Iran launched missiles at the U.S. Al Udeid base in Qatar in retaliation for U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, which reportedly caused significant destruction.
Working closely with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, Trump persuaded Israel to agree to a truce while Qatar lobbied Iran. Despite minor violations shortly after the truce was declared, including Iranian missile strikes and limited Israeli responses, both sides largely adhered to the ceasefire.
The agreement was brokered with no major conditions besides halting hostilities. Key to the diplomacy were continued indirect U.S.-Iran contacts via Qatar and Oman. While Trump hailed the truce as a diplomatic success, concerns about Iran's ongoing nuclear activities persist, especially as Iranian officials remain defiant.
Israeli officials, confident in their military gains, now look to convert battlefield success into political leverage for renewed international diplomatic pressure on Iran's nuclear program. The ceasefire's durability remains uncertain amid ongoing tensions and skepticism.
Global markets responded positively, with oil prices plunging and stock markets rising, reflecting optimism over reduced Middle East instability.
