The Iranian military command has announced the end of military operations against Israel, following a call from US President Donald Trump urging both sides to stop shooting. However, Iran warned that if Israel carries out further aggression, Tehran will launch more severe measures.
Exchange of Fire
The escalation began on Sunday evening when Iran fired a barrage of missiles at Israel, which were intercepted. Israel retaliated by striking targets in Iran, including a petrochemical complex in the southwest. Trump then posted on Truth Social: "Israel and Iran must immediately stop 'shooting.'" He added that both sides are looking for an immediate ceasefire and that final peace negotiations are proceeding.
International Reactions
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed deep concern and called for a return to the ceasefire. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged the halt but vowed to respond with force to future attacks. He also said Israel continues operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Schools across Israel remain closed on Tuesday, with the Education Minister aiming to reopen on Wednesday. The IDF reported three missiles launched from Lebanon by Hezbollah, which were intercepted or landed without causing injuries. Iran cancelled all flights and closed its western airspace.
Regional Impact
Oil prices jumped by over 4% following the strikes. The Indian Embassy in Tehran urged nationals to leave Iran, and the Belgian consulate in East Jerusalem advised against travel. Hezbollah claimed a retaliatory attack on Israeli soldiers in southern Lebanon, citing Israel's violation of the ceasefire.
Iran accused the IAEA chief of deliberate bias, while Israel's ambassador to the US defended the strikes, stating that no country would tolerate missile attacks. The Israeli military confirmed targeting a petrochemical plant in Mahshahr and reported that Iran launched about 30 ballistic missiles toward Israel.
