Israel and Iran Agree to US-Brokered Ceasefire
After almost two weeks of conflict between Israel and Iran, a US-brokered ceasefire has been agreed upon, signaling a possible end to the hostilities between the two regional rivals. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stated that “all of the objectives” of Israel’s military offensive had been achieved.
Iran’s state television also confirmed that Tehran had agreed to halt attacks. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi had earlier stated that Iran would end its military action if Israel stopped its “aggression.”
The ceasefire announcement came after US President Donald Trump revealed that both Israel and Iran had agreed to end the “12 day war.” Trump took to Truth Social to announce, “It has been fully agreed by and between Israel and Iran that there will be a Complete and Total CEASEFIRE,” while also cautioning against violating the truce.
The de-escalation unfolded rapidly following Iran’s missile strike on the Al Udeid air base near Doha, the largest US air base in the Middle East. Iran claimed the attack, which resulted in no casualties, was in retaliation for the US strike on its nuclear facilities over the weekend.
Oil prices experienced a further decline after the ceasefire announcement, with Brent crude dropping 4.9% to $68.08 a barrel. The market reacted to Iran’s attack on the Doha base as a symbolic gesture, aimed at avoiding a strong response from the US.
Israel emphasized that the decision to cease its strikes on Iran was made in full coordination with President Trump. Netanyahu initiated the military campaign against Iran nearly two weeks ago, citing a threat from Tehran’s missile and nuclear programs, while Iran maintains that its nuclear activities are peaceful.
