Iran and Israel announced a halt to military strikes on Monday following their first direct exchange of fire since a ceasefire was established in April, raising hopes of a temporary de-escalation in the Middle East conflict.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel was holding fire “at the moment” but emphasized that the campaign against Iran and the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement in Lebanon was “not finished.”
Iran’s military also declared an end to its operations after delivering what it described as a “painful response” to Israeli actions, while warning that any renewed attacks would trigger “more severe and crushing measures.”
The latest escalation began after Iran launched missiles at Israel on Sunday in retaliation for an Israeli strike on Beirut. Israel responded early Monday with airstrikes targeting what it said were military facilities in Iran, including a petrochemical complex in the southwestern city of Mahshahr.
U.S. President Donald Trump played a key role in easing tensions, speaking directly with Netanyahu and urging both sides to stop further military action. Trump told reporters that peace negotiations were progressing and expressed optimism that a broader agreement could be reached within days.
“No nuclear weapons, no nothing. We have to use a lot of common sense,” Trump said, adding that Israel had agreed to halt its strikes at Washington’s request.
Despite the pause in fighting, both sides continued to exchange warnings. Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s right to self-defense, while Iranian officials stressed that Tehran would determine the timing of any future military or diplomatic moves.
The conflict, which began on 28 February following a joint U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran, has expanded across the region. Lebanon has become a major front in the war, with continued clashes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah despite previous ceasefire efforts.
The human cost of the conflict continues to rise. Iranian sources report more than 3,400 deaths inside Iran, while Lebanese authorities say over 3,600 people have been killed in Israeli attacks. Israeli authorities report at least 20 civilian deaths from Iranian missile strikes, alongside casualties among soldiers and civilians along the Israel-Lebanon border.
Although both countries have paused their attacks for now, analysts warn that the ceasefire remains fragile. Any violation could quickly reignite a broader regional conflict, threatening ongoing diplomatic efforts and regional stability.
