Israel, Iran Exchange Missile Strikes Amid Ceasefire Uncertainty

Despite a US-brokered bilateral ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran announced by President Donald Trump after 12 days of conflict, violence quickly resumed with Iran launching ballistic missile attacks on northern and southern Israel, including a deadly strike in Be'er Sheva that killed several civilians. Israeli lawmakers and leaders condemned Iran's violation of the ceasefire and called for immediate and forceful retaliation against Iranian targets. Iran's foreign minister indicated Tehran would halt its strikes if Israel ceased its attacks, but the situation remained volatile with conflicting reports on the ceasefire's implementation and continued explosions and missile fire. Israel asserted it had achieved its military objectives against Iran's nuclear and ballistic threats yet vowed to respond strongly to any ceasefire violations. The ceasefire was intended to be phased, with Iran stopping operations first and Israel following 12 hours later; however, missile launches occurred shortly after the announced start time, casting doubt on the truce's durability. These developments have heightened international concerns about escalating regional instability and the potential for a wider conflict.