
A fragile ceasefire brokered by US President Donald Trump between Israel and Iran collapsed within hours on Tuesday, after both countries accused each other of violating the terms. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claimed Iran had launched missiles toward northern Israel, while Iranian officials denied the allegation and said they were still respecting the truce.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump issued a direct warning to Israel, saying, "Israel. Do not drop those bombs. If you do, it is a major violation. Bring your pilots home, now!"
He also claimed that “Iran’s nuclear capacities are gone”, asserting that Tehran would never be able to rebuild its nuclear program again, though no independent verification of that claim has been provided so far.
The ceasefire, which began as a phased agreement with Iran halting operations first, followed by Israel 12 hours later, was seen as a major diplomatic breakthrough after nearly two weeks of conflict.
In a blunt and highly unusual public rebuke, US President Trump criticised Israel’s immediate retaliation after the ceasefire went into effect.
“I didn’t like that Israel ‘unloaded’ right after they agreed to a ceasefire,” he said at a press briefing, adding, “I’m really unhappy with Israel.”
Shortly after the ceasefire began, Israel’s military said it had detected missile fire from Iran, activating sirens in northern and central Israel. The IDF responded by launching targeted strikes on military sites in Tehran, reportedly focusing on missile launchers and weapons facilities.
Iran has strongly denied firing first, accusing Israel of breaking the agreement and provoking renewed hostilities.
With both sides exchanging fire and rhetoric escalating, the ceasefire appears to be on the verge of complete breakdown. Trump’s efforts to bring both nations to the negotiating table are now under renewed strain.