Tense Truce Declared as Israel-Iran Conflict Escalates

Washington, D.C. — U.S. President Donald Trump announced that a ceasefire between Israel and Iran has officially come into effect, urging both nations to honor the fragile agreement and avoid further hostilities.

The announcement follows a dramatic escalation in violence. Iran unleashed multiple missile attacks on Israel, leading to at least four fatalities in Beersheba, located in southern Israel. Despite Trump’s statement, ambiguity remains over the terms of the truce.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi earlier denied the existence of a formal ceasefire deal but indicated that Iran would suspend its attacks provided Israel halts its “illegal aggression” by 4 a.m. local time (00:30 GMT). Israeli officials have not yet issued any public response.

Adding to regional tensions, Iran also targeted a U.S. military base in Qatar on Monday evening, launching a barrage of missiles in retaliation for American strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities a day prior.

According to Iranian sources, more than 400 people, including 13 children, have been killed and over 3,000 wounded since Israel initiated its offensive on June 13. Meanwhile, Israel reports at least 24 casualties resulting from Iranian missile strikes.

The international community is watching closely as both sides stand at a critical crossroads, with the potential for either de-escalation or renewed conflict.