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Iran’s foreign ministry has denied that a ceasefire has been formally agreed with Israel, casting doubt over claims made just hours earlier by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that “no agreement” has been reached, though Tehran “has no intention” of continuing further strikes unless Israel resumes “its illegal aggression.”
The statement directly contradicts President Trump’s earlier declaration on Truth Social, in which he said a “complete and total ceasefire” had been brokered, due to take effect in stages beginning six hours after the announcement.
Missile Fire Over Doha as Tensions Simmer
The diplomatic confusion comes on the heels of a dramatic night in Doha, Qatar, where Iranian ballistic missiles targeted the U.S.-run Al Udeid airbase. Eyewitnesses reported loud explosions and interceptors lighting up the skies above the city. The U.S. later confirmed it had been pre-warned of the attack, and no casualties were reported.
Trump, who monitored the strikes from the White House Situation Room, described Iran’s missile barrage as a “very weak response”, insisting it had been anticipated and countered.
‘THE 12 DAY WAR’: Trump’s Celebratory Tone
Trump’s statement suggested an imminent end to the conflict, calling it “THE 12 DAY WAR” and crediting both Israel and Iran for having the “Stamina, Courage, and Intelligence” to step back from full-scale warfare.
“This is a war that could have gone on for years, and destroyed the entire Middle East, but it didn’t — and never will!” Trump wrote.
He claimed the ceasefire was unlimited and declared it a “wonderful day” for global peace in an NBC interview.
Iran’s Final Word Not Yet Made
But Iran’s message was notably less definitive. Abbas Araghchi stated the “final decision” on halting further operations “will be made later,” suggesting conditions could still trigger renewed hostilities.
Meanwhile, Israeli forces ordered new evacuation zones in Tehran, reportedly preparing for the possibility of further escalation despite U.S. mediation and Qatari diplomatic outreach.
Background: U.S. Strikes and Nuclear Fallout
The developments come after the U.S. launched massive precision airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities — including Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan — over the weekend. U.S. Vice President JD Vance claimed the strikes had crippled Iran’s nuclear programme, stating on Fox News:
“Iran is now incapable of building a nuclear weapon with the equipment they have because we destroyed it.”
What Happens Next?
While there is international pressure for both sides to hold fire, mixed signals from Tehran and Washington mean the fate of the ceasefire remains uncertain.
The U.S., Israel, and Gulf allies remain on high alert, with British and American embassies in the region issuing “shelter in place” advisories to nationals.
