On Monday June 23, 2025, US President Donald Trump announced a phased "complete and total" ceasefire between Iran and Israel, following 12 intense days of military escalation. According to Trump, Iran will halt hostilities immediately, followed by Israel within 12 hours. Though neither government has formally confirmed, financial markets responded quickly—oil prices dropped roughly 7%, reflecting easing regional risk.
The escalation began with Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites. In response, the U.S. executed Operation Midnight Hammer on June 21, deploying seven B‑2 Spirit bombers that conducted a non‑stop mission from Missouri, supported by decoy flights and 125 aircraft. These bombers released 14 GBU‑57 Massive Ordnance Penetrators at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan—marking the first combat use of these bunker-busters.
Shortly afterward, Iran launched ballistic missiles at the U.S. Al‑Udeid Air Base in Qatar in retaliation. Qatari defenses intercepted all missiles, and there were no reported casualties. Qatar informed U.S. forces in advance, mitigating harm and opening diplomatic channels.
President Trump described the conflict as the “12 Day War” and emphasized the ceasefire’s phased design to allow both sides to disengage without further escalation. However, its unofficial status—and lack of formal sign-off from Iran or Israel—means the truce remains fragile.
The ceasefire offers a brief respite in a region long tense and unsettled. The coming days will reveal whether this pause evolves into lasting stability.
Sources: Reuters, ABC News
