The ceasefire has been undone, with Israel claiming an Iranian violation and ordering a “pummeling” of Tehran. The rapid re-escalation demonstrates the deep-seated nature of the conflict.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated he had ordered the military to “respond forcefully to Iran’s violation of the ceasefire with powerful strikes against regime targets in the heart of Tehran.” This directive came after air raid sirens sounded in northern Israel, prompting reports of an Iranian missile launch and two interceptions.
The US President’s early morning social media announcement of a “Complete and Total CEASEFIRE” had initially offered a glimmer of hope. However, the subsequent events demonstrate the profound challenges in de-escalating the long-standing conflict.
Before the ceasefire, intense exchanges of fire characterized the conflict, with Israel launching heavy airstrikes on Tehran and Iran responding with missile barrages that caused casualties in Israel. The current situation suggests a precarious balance, with both sides maintaining a high state of alert.