In a dramatic turn of events, a ceasefire agreement has been brokered between Israel and Iran, with former U.S. President Donald Trump playing a central role. The announcement, which initially caught many off guard, comes after a period of heightened tensions and military exchanges between the two nations.

According to reports, Trump personally engaged with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to secure Israel's commitment to the ceasefire. Simultaneously, his team, including Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and special envoy Steve Witkoff, were in contact with Iranian officials. Qatar also played a crucial role as an intermediary, relaying messages between Iran and the U.S.

Netanyahu has confirmed that Israel has agreed to the ceasefire proposal, expressing gratitude to Trump and the United States for their support and participation, particularly in targeting Iran's nuclear infrastructure. He stated that Israel had achieved its objectives of removing Tehran's nuclear and ballistic missile threat. However, he also issued a stern warning that Israel would "respond forcefully" to any violation of the truce.

While Trump declared a "complete and total" ceasefire, Iranian officials initially offered a more cautious response. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that there was "NO 'agreement' on any ceasefire or cessation of military operations." However, he signaled that Iran would be open to pausing hostilities if Israel ceased its "illegal aggression." Later reports suggest Iran has agreed to the ceasefire.

The ceasefire announcement followed a series of escalations, including Iranian missile attacks on a U.S. military base in Qatar and reported Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Trump's decision to authorize strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities just days before the ceasefire announcement had seemingly brought the U.S. closer to another Middle East war.

The details of the ceasefire implementation involve a phased approach. Reports indicate a 12-hour initial ceasefire, followed by a complete end to hostilities 12 hours after that. Trump urged both sides to uphold the agreement.

If the ceasefire holds, it would represent a significant diplomatic achievement, particularly for Trump, who has portrayed himself as a peacemaker. It could also de-escalate fears of a wider regional conflict.

Despite the announced ceasefire, some reports indicate continued exchanges of fire. Just hours after Trump's announcement, reports emerged of missiles fired by Iran towards Israel, resulting in casualties. Sirens were heard across Israel, and citizens were urged to seek shelter. It remains to be seen whether these incidents will undermine the ceasefire agreement.

Netanyahu stated that Israel had achieved significant military objectives, including eliminating key nuclear and missile threats, achieving air superiority over Tehran's skies, and striking government targets in Iran. He also claimed that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) had eliminated hundreds of Basij operatives and neutralized another senior nuclear scientist.

The coming hours and days will be crucial in determining whether the ceasefire will hold and whether Israel and Iran can find a path towards de-escalation and stability in the region.