Breaking News: A US-brokered ceasefire brings an end to escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran after twelve days of attacks and counter-attacks.
Israel and Iran have agreed to a ceasefire, ending a twelve-day period of heightened conflict. The agreement, brokered by the United States, halts retaliatory strikes between the two nations following Iran’s unprecedented aerial assault on Israel last weekend. No details regarding the terms of the ceasefire have been publicly released.
The conflict began with a suspected Israeli strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus on April 1st, reportedly killing several Iranian military commanders. Iran responded with a barrage of drones and missiles launched directly at Israeli territory on April 13th, nearly all of which were intercepted with assistance from the US, UK and Jordan. Israel subsequently launched retaliatory strikes within Iran, targeting facilities described as being linked to Iran’s nuclear program. The Jerusalem Post reports that these Israeli strikes were conducted “carefully, to avoid escalation.”
According to Fox News, the Biden administration has been working “around the clock” to de-escalate the situation, fearing a wider regional war. The Daily Mail claims that the US conveyed a “private message” to Iran warning of a stronger response should further attacks occur. The Sun reports that both sides have signalled acceptance of the ceasefire terms. The Daily Telegraph has not independently confirmed specifics of the agreement, but acknowledges the cessation of hostilities.
The Israeli government has maintained its position that it reserves the right to defend itself against Iranian aggression. The Jerusalem Post quotes a senior Israeli official stating that “Iran initiated this escalation, and they must be held accountable for their actions.” The US has reportedly urged restraint from both sides to prevent further escalation.
Further details of the ceasefire agreement, and any potential negotiations towards a lasting de-escalation, are anticipated in the coming days. The situation remains fluid and the long-term implications for regional stability are as yet unclear.
Sources: The Sun, The Daily Telegraph, The Daily Mail, Fox News, The Jerusalem Post.
