The clash began on June 13, when Israel launched “Operation Rising Lion” targeting Iranian nuclear and military sites, reportedly killing senior figures and deploying airstrikes on Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan
Iran responded with a large-scale counterattack—150+ ballistic missiles and over 100 drones directed at Israel
This prompted missile defense maneuvers from Israel and U.S. strikes played a backing role .
2. U.S. Military Involvement
On June 22, the U.S. conducted strikes on three Iranian nuclear installations, using B-2 bombers and Tomahawk missiles in “Operation Midnight Hammer”
Iran then retaliated against the U.S. airbase at Al-Udeid, Qatar, firing a modest salvo of missiles, all intercepted—no casualties
3. Trump’s Ceasefire Claim
On June 23, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that Israel and Iran had agreed to a “complete and total ceasefire.” He detailed a phased 24‑hour process: Iran would halt first, Israel 12 hours later, ending the so-called “12‑Day War”
Trump called it a strategic triumph, credited neighboring Qatar for mediating, and praised Iranian restraint. He claimed significant damage to Iran’s nuclear capabilities, though these remain unverified
4. Reality Check: Did Fighting Actually Pause?
No official confirmation came from Israel, though some unnamed officials signaled readiness to stand down
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi clarified that no formal ceasefire was signed—military operations would stop only if Israel halted its attacks by 4 a.m. Tehran time, otherwise they’d continue
As of early Tuesday morning, missile volleys from Iran persisted, and explosions were heard in Tehran—suggesting the ceasefire was not fully active
5. Market & Geopolitical Impact
Oil prices plunged ~3–7%: WTI dropped to $65–66, Brent to $68–69 per barrel, as fears of disruption through the Strait of Hormuz eased .
U.S. stock futures rose: S&P 500 up ~0.6%, Nasdaq ~0.9%, and European futures also gained
Markets celebrated a drop in geopolitical “risk premium,” as Iran’s limited reaction signaled broader de-escalation
6. Broader Significance & Outlook
No confirmed bilateral deal: Trump labeled it a triumph, but Israel and Iran remain silent or noncommittal
Iran’s condition-based pause indicates ongoing friction—but it could open a window for diplomacy .
Global stakes: Qatar played a pivotal diplomatic role; Russia, China, and the EU called for calm; concerns persist over regional escalation
💡 Blogging Suggestions Element Tip Structure Start with the explosive military actions, then introduce Trump’s declaration, followed by skepticism and market impact. Tone Balanced: present Trump’s claims alongside official doubts and neutral market reactions. Add-ons Include a timeline graphic (June 13–23); maps of strike zones; market charts. Engagement End with: “Is this ceasefire credible—or just strategic theater?” or “Will this calm hold beyond 24 hours?”
✨ Summary Trump’s announcement aims to frame the end of a deadly 12-day conflict, but without formal agreement or confirmation, the truce remains tenuous. Markets responded positively, yet the region’s future hinges on whether Israel halts its strikes and Iran commits to stand down.