Trump announces Israel-Iran ceasefire, but missile attacks continue and casualties are reported
U.S. President Donald Trump declared a historic ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran on Monday, June 24. Yet within hours of the announcement, Tehran launched a fresh wave of missile strikes, casting doubt on the durability and enforcement of the truce.
Trump Declares End to ‘12-Day War’
On Monday, June 24, President Trump took to Truth Social to announce what he described as a “complete and total” 12-hour ceasefire between Israel and Iran. Framing the agreement as a diplomatic milestone, Trump claimed it would lead to a permanent halt in hostilities and end the 12-day conflict that began on June 12, when Israel launched strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities.
Calling the deal “forever,” Trump told NBC News, “It’s going to go forever… Congratulations world, it’s time for peace.” The ceasefire was reportedly to begin once both nations completed final missions, with full compliance expected within the 24th hour.
Iran Strikes Despite Ceasefire
Despite the announcement, Iranian state TV (IRINN) broadcast support for the ceasefire. However, Israel’s military reported a fourth wave of missile attacks from Tehran shortly after the proclamation. The renewed strikes resulted in deaths in Israel, though official casualty numbers were not immediately disclosed.
The attacks follow Iran’s retaliation against a U.S. military base in Qatar earlier on Monday, further escalating regional tensions. The situation exposes a stark contrast between political declarations and military realities on the ground.
Background: War Rooted in Nuclear Fears
The Israel-Iran conflict reignited earlier this month when Israel launched airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. The action, backed by the United States, was aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. In response, Iran began a series of missile and drone attacks on Israeli territory.
Trump’s recent airstrikes on Iranian nuclear bases, ordered on Saturday, June 22, intensified the conflict before this short-lived truce attempt. Both nations remain firm in their respective positions, with Israel citing existential threats and Iran defending its right to sovereignty.
International Reactions and Doubts
Global reactions to the ceasefire have been mixed. While Trump framed the deal as a diplomatic triumph, ongoing violence has raised doubts about its legitimacy. Analysts say that without a mutually verifiable enforcement mechanism, the ceasefire may be symbolic at best.
The United Nations and other regional actors have yet to issue detailed responses. Meanwhile, Israeli and Iranian military sources have remained cautious in confirming whether further engagements are planned or avoided.
Risk of Wider Escalation
The breakdown of the ceasefire raises concerns about a broader Middle Eastern conflict, especially given the involvement of U.S. forces in Qatar. It also threatens regional stability, trade, and energy routes vital to Southeast Asia.
Singaporean and Indonesian observers, reliant on Middle Eastern oil and security cooperation, are watching closely. The episode underscores how regional wars can ripple into Southeast Asian economic and political affairs.
The failed ceasefire between Israel and Iran reveals the fragile nature of conflict resolution in the Middle East. While Trump’s announcement offered a moment of optimism, the continued violence highlights deeper mistrust and complex geopolitics. For nations in Southeast Asia, the developments serve as a sobering reminder of how international instability can impact local economies, diplomacy, and security frameworks.
Sources: CNA (2025) , Fair Field Sun Times (2025)
Keywords: Israel Iran Ceasefire, Trump Peace Deal, Iran Missile Strike, Middle East Conflict, 12 Day War, US Iran Tensions
