Israel, Iran Announce Pause in Hostilities After Trump’s Appeal

JERUSALEM/TEHRAN — Israel and Iran have announced a pause in hostilities less than 24 hours after both countries exchanged strikes despite an existing ceasefire agreement.

The development followed a call by US President Donald Trump on Monday urging both nations to immediately halt military actions and return to peace negotiations.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the suspension of strikes in a video statement, saying Israel had ceased military operations after Iran stopped its attacks.

“At the moment, we are holding our fire, because after we struck the terror regime in Tehran, it ceased attacking us,” Netanyahu said.

The Israeli leader, however, warned that any renewed attacks from Iran would be met with a strong response.

“If Iran resumes attacks, Israel will respond with overwhelming force,” he added.

Iran Announces Suspension of Operations

Iran also declared a halt to its military operations against Israel but warned that further action could follow if Israeli attacks continued elsewhere in the region.

In a statement carried by Iranian media, the country’s emergency military command, Khatam al-Anbiya, announced the suspension of armed operations.

“The cessation of armed forces operations is announced,” the statement said.

“However, it is emphasized that if the aggression and acts of malice continue, including in southern Lebanon, much more severe and crushing measures than before will be forthcoming.”

The warning referenced ongoing tensions involving the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.

Trump Pushes for Peace Talks

Reports indicated that Trump and Netanyahu held a telephone conversation shortly before the Israeli prime minister announced the pause in military operations.

Earlier on Monday, Trump suggested that diplomatic efforts were progressing, saying in a post on Truth Social that final negotiations aimed at securing peace were underway.

The latest pause in hostilities comes after weeks of heightened tensions and military exchanges between Israel and Iran, raising fears of a wider regional conflict.

While both sides have agreed to halt attacks for now, analysts say the situation remains fragile, with the threat of renewed violence still looming if either side accuses the other of violating the truce.

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A Lagos-based journalist with a passion for disseminating factual information and a deep appreciation for good music, good food, movies, and beautiful cars. He hopes to travel the world someday, documenting its beauty and diverse cultures through his storytelling.