Trump Declares Israel-Iran Ceasefire: Is This Really the End of the 12-Day War?

Trump’s Sudden Ceasefire Declaration: What Happened?

Did you know that on June 24, 2025, President Donald Trump took to his Truth Social platform and declared that a 'complete and total' ceasefire between Israel and Iran was now in effect? According to Trump, after 12 days of escalating violence, both sides had agreed to halt hostilities, supposedly ending what he termed 'THE 12 DAY WAR.' Trump’s announcement followed a tense period marked by missile exchanges, airstrikes, and growing international alarm. He claimed that his direct intervention and pressure on both Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Iranian officials were decisive in brokering this deal. Trump even congratulated both nations for their 'endurance, bravery, and wisdom' in reaching this point. But was it really that simple? Multiple news outlets, including Reuters and CNN, reported that while Iran confirmed the ceasefire, Israel’s official response was more cautious, with both sides wary of each other’s next move.

A Phased Ceasefire—But the Guns Didn’t Fall Silent

Trump’s ceasefire plan was anything but straightforward. The agreement called for a staggered process: Iran would halt all operations first, then Israel would follow 12 hours later, with a full 24 hours marking the 'official end' of the war. This phased approach was meant to allow both sides to wrap up any ongoing military actions. However, even as the ceasefire was being announced, explosions rocked Tehran and missile sirens wailed in Israeli cities. According to The Philippine Star and Gulf Today, hundreds had already died in Iran and dozens in Israel, and the violence showed little sign of stopping immediately. Journalists described the overnight explosions in Tehran as some of the most intense since the conflict began. Both sides accused each other of violating the truce almost as soon as it was declared.

Behind the Scenes: Diplomacy, Pressure, and Skepticism

How did this ceasefire come about? Trump’s team, with help from Qatar’s foreign minister, reportedly pressured both sides into accepting the deal. Netanyahu claimed Israel had achieved its war aims, including damaging Iran’s nuclear and missile programs, and was now willing to halt attacks if Iran did the same. Iranian officials, meanwhile, insisted their acceptance was conditional and pointed out that no formal diplomatic documents had been signed. South Korean blogs and local news like Naver and Tistory highlighted skepticism among experts: many saw Trump’s announcement as more of a diplomatic maneuver than a guarantee of real peace. The lack of official statements from Israeli and Iranian military leaders fueled doubts about the truce’s durability.

Media and Community Reactions: Relief, Doubt, and Criticism

Online communities in Korea, such as Theqoo, Nate Pann, and DCInside, buzzed with mixed reactions. Some users expressed relief that the fighting might finally stop, while others were deeply skeptical, citing the ongoing explosions and the history of failed ceasefires in the region. Comments ranged from 'Let’s hope this really ends the bloodshed' to 'This is just another political show.' Internationally, the announcement was met with cautious optimism but also concern that the ceasefire could collapse at any moment. Many pointed out that both sides had previously broken similar agreements, and that the underlying issues—especially Iran’s nuclear ambitions—remained unresolved.

Cultural Context: Why This Conflict Resonates Worldwide

For global readers, it’s important to understand why the Israel-Iran conflict draws such intense attention. The Middle East has long been a flashpoint for geopolitical rivalries, religious tensions, and superpower involvement. Israel and Iran, as regional heavyweights, have repeatedly clashed over security, ideology, and influence. The recent 12-day war was especially alarming because it involved direct missile exchanges and even U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Trump’s involvement added another layer, as his foreign policy style is often unpredictable and highly publicized. The world watched nervously, knowing that any escalation could drag in other countries and destabilize the region further.

What’s Next? Uncertain Peace and Lingering Tensions

So, is the war really over? While Trump insists the ceasefire is 'now in effect,' reports from NPR, Reuters, and AP News suggest otherwise. Both Israel and Iran accused each other of violating the agreement within hours, and airstrikes continued in some areas. Trump himself expressed frustration, saying he was 'not happy with either country,' especially Israel, for continuing attacks after the deal. Israeli officials warned they would respond 'forcefully' to any violation, while Iran’s military denied launching new missiles but admitted to retaliatory actions. The ceasefire may have paused the worst of the violence, but the underlying issues—nuclear weapons, regional rivalry, and mutual distrust—are far from resolved. As one Naver blogger put it, 'This is a diplomatic attempt, not a guarantee of real peace.' For now, the world watches and waits, hoping that this fragile truce will hold longer than those before it.