
Ceasefire Holds Following Days of Escalation
President Donald Trump sharply criticized both Israel and Iran just hours after securing a ceasefire between the two nations, signaling growing frustration with both allies and adversaries amid volatile conditions. Despite his rebuke, the truce remains intact, with each side stating it will uphold the agreement unless provoked.
Strikes and Damage Assessment
U.S. military strikes over the weekend targeted three Iranian nuclear facilities. According to an early assessment from the Defense Intelligence Agency, the strikes failed to destroy Iran’s nuclear infrastructure entirely and likely delayed progress by only a few months. This finding stands in contrast to public claims by Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who asserted that the strikes eliminated Iran’s nuclear capability.
Netanyahu Praises Trump, Declares Victory
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu thanked Trump for U.S. support and participation in what he described as the most severe strike against Tehran in 50 years. Netanyahu claimed that Israel had eliminated hundreds of Iranian operatives and significantly damaged Iran’s nuclear and missile programs.
Iranian Perspective
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also labeled the outcome a “historic victory” for his nation, framing the ceasefire as a result of resistance against Israeli aggression. Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s position that its nuclear program is solely for peaceful purposes and denied seeking nuclear weapons.
American Evacuation and Regional Diplomacy
The U.S. coordinated the evacuation of over 400 American citizens and legal residents from Israel, while hundreds more left via Jordan, Egypt, and Cyprus. The State Department also negotiated with Turkmenistan to facilitate American departures from Iran.
Military and Civilian Impact
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed Israel will maintain the ceasefire as long as Iran does. Meanwhile, the Israeli military warned that operations may shift focus back to Gaza. On the Iranian side, public demonstrations in Tehran supported the armed forces’ actions. Despite the truce, residents of affected cities such as Beer Sheva continue to assess damage and mourn casualties following recent missile attacks.
Congressional Tensions Rise
Domestically, President Trump faced pushback from members of Congress, particularly over the lack of timely classified briefings on the strikes. Representative Al Green introduced articles of impeachment, arguing the president violated constitutional limits by launching military action without congressional approval.
Resumption of Activity in Israel and Iran
Israel lifted nationwide restrictions, including those on public gatherings and air travel, as airports resumed full operations. Iran partially reopened its airspace to international flights, signaling cautious steps toward normalization.
Conclusion
Though the ceasefire has halted active hostilities, the situation remains fragile. With each side claiming victory and underlying tensions unresolved, the path to long-term stability in the region is uncertain.