ISLAMABAD:
Explosions echoed across Tehran on Tuesday, following Israeli airstrikes, despite US President Donald Trump’s assertion that Israel had called off military operations to uphold a newly agreed ceasefire.
Residents in the Iranian capital reported hearing two loud blasts.
Israel later confirmed it had struck a radar facility near Tehran, stating the move was in retaliation for Iranian missile launches just hours after the ceasefire began.
However, it remained unclear whether the strike occurred before or after Trump’s direct intervention.
Trump’s Outburst and Diplomatic Confusion
Trump, en route to a NATO summit, publicly rebuked Israel, using strong language to demand an end to the strikes.
In a social media post, he declared that all aircraft were ordered to turn back as part of the truce.
He expressed frustration with both sides for violating the ceasefire, singling out Israel for acting prematurely.
Reports suggest Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu agreed to scale back attacks after a heated exchange with Trump.
Defense Minister Israel Katz had earlier confirmed major strikes on Tehran were authorized due to Iran’s alleged ceasefire violations—claims Tehran denies.
Iran insists it did not launch missiles and accused Israel of continuing its assault after the ceasefire was in effect.
Hope Amid Ruins
Despite conflicting narratives, relief spread across both nations as a ceasefire path emerged after 12 days of escalating conflict.
Civilians in Iran and Israel expressed cautious optimism, even as they mourned losses and counted damage.
One Tel Aviv resident said his home was destroyed but welcomed the truce, hoping it marks a turning point.
Iran confirmed nine deaths from Israeli strikes, while Israel reported four fatalities from Iranian missiles targeting Beersheba.
A senior White House official confirmed that Trump had brokered the ceasefire directly with Netanyahu, with Qatar also playing a key role in securing Iran’s agreement.
Notably, Iran’s missile retaliation on a US base in Qatar resulted in no injuries, with prior warning reportedly given—a gesture that facilitated de-escalation.
Trump reaffirmed he does not support regime change in Iran and reiterated that the country must not develop nuclear weapons.
He stressed the need for calm and urged all parties to avoid further chaos.
With widespread destruction and over 50 lives lost, the truce remains fragile but vital for regional stability.
