In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, former U.S. President Donald Trump declared that Israel and Iran have reached a phased ceasefire, seemingly concluding almost two weeks of heightened conflict, which Trump referred to as the “12-Day War.”
The ceasefire is anticipated to take place over a 24-hour timeframe, with both sides halting hostilities in turn. As of this moment, neither Israel nor Iran has officially verified the agreement.
Ceasefire Structure: How It Will Work
According to Trump’s Truth Social post and subsequent reports:
- Phase One: Iran will begin a 12-hour ceasefire approximately six hours after the announcement.
- Phase Two: Israel will then observe its 12-hour halt, completing a 24-hour phased truce.
- If observed, the phased process will mark a formal end to active hostilities.
“CONGRATULATIONS TO EVERYONE! It has been fully agreed by and between Israel and Iran that there will be a Complete and Total CEASEFIRE…” –President Donald J. Trump pic.twitter.com/hLTBT34KnG
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) June 23, 2025
Trump did not specify how or whether international observers would verify compliance.
Timeline of Escalation
The conflict’s sudden rise and diplomatic pivot trace back to key flashpoints:
- June 13: Israeli forces launched targeted airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure.
- In response, Iran fired missiles and drones toward Israel.
- June 22: U.S. military assets struck Iranian nuclear sites at Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow.
- Iran countered by targeting the U.S.-controlled Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar — most missiles were intercepted, with no reported casualties.
Global Reactions
While Trump’s announcement was received with cautious optimism, official confirmations remain absent:
- Israel and Iran have not issued public statements acknowledging or confirming the ceasefire.
- The United Nations and European Union have called for immediate verification and broader diplomatic engagement.
- Oil markets showed early signs of volatility as investors reacted to both the conflict and the proposed truce.
- Vice President JD Vance called the ceasefire a “critical inflection point for peace and balance in the region.”
What Happens Next?
With neither side offering confirmation, many experts remain skeptical of a lasting resolution. However, diplomatic momentum is building:
- Talks are expected between regional and global powers, possibly involving Russia, China, the UN, and the EU.
- Monitoring mechanisms may be proposed to enforce or extend the ceasefire.
- Analysts warn that any violation during the phased approach could reignite full-scale conflict.
Trump’s announcement has captured international attention, not only for its potential to end violence, but for the surprise nature of his involvement. While many questions remain, the next 24 hours will be critical in determining whether this ceasefire is the beginning of peace or just a pause in conflict.
Stay with LoudFact for updates as this story develops.
