The ceasefire declared by the US President is being challenged as Israel responds forcefully to an alleged Iranian missile launch. The rapid return to hostilities raises concerns about the stability of the Middle East.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated he had instructed the military to “respond forcefully to Iran’s violation of the ceasefire with powerful strikes against regime targets in the heart of Tehran.” His order came after air raid sirens in northern Israel and reports of two intercepted Iranian missiles.
The US President had announced the ceasefire just after 5 am BST, urging both warring parties not to violate it. While both Israel and Iran had publicly accepted the truce, the immediate allegations and retaliatory orders highlight the immense challenges in securing a lasting peace.
The conflict’s preceding days saw significant violence, including extensive Israeli airstrikes on Tehran and Iranian missile barrages that resulted in casualties in southern Israel. The current developments suggest a precarious situation, with both sides remaining on high alert and poised for further action.