President Trump hails ‘12 Day War’ end as both nations to observe a phased, 24-hour ceasefire backed by Qatar’s mediation
Donald Trump / complete and total ceasefire (Courtesy Wikipedia)Washington, DC (Times Media Service) – President Trump announced that Israel and Iran have agreed to a complete and total ceasefire, marking what he called the end of the “12 Day War,” with the truce to be phased in over 24 hours beginning at midnight EDT on Wednesday.
Details of the ‘Complete and Total’ Ceasefire Agreement
President Trump posted on Truth Social that the ceasefire would unfold in two 12-hour stages: Iran’s strikes would halt first, followed by Israel winding down its operations 12 hours later. He congratulated both nations for their stamina, courage, and intelligence in ending hostilities.
Qatar’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, secured Tehran’s agreement during direct talks, according to U.S. and Qatari officials. While Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi affirmed that Iran would stop attacks if Israel ceased its “illegal aggression” by 4 a.m. Tehran time, he stressed that a final decision on halting operations would be announced later.
Neither the Israeli government nor Iran’s Supreme Leader has publicly confirmed the deal, leaving analysts to question whether both sides will strictly observe the phased plan.
Staged Implementation Over 24 Hours
Under the plan, Iran fired its last round of missiles before the ceasefire took effect, according to Iran’s semi-official news agency. Israel’s ambulance service reported four fatalities in Beersheba from earlier barrages—the first Israeli deaths since the deal was announced.
Witnesses near Tel Aviv heard explosions even after Trump’s initial announcement, underscoring the difficulty of synchronizing a ceasefire amid active operations. A senior White House official said Israel agreed to the ceasefire so long as Iran did not resume further attacks.
Market reactions were swift: U.S. crude oil futures slid to their lowest in over a week, and S&P 500 futures rose, reflecting eased concerns over regional supply disruptions.
Background of the ‘12 Day War’
Tensions ignited on June 13 when Israel launched a surprise air campaign against Iranian nuclear sites, citing an imminent threat of Iran obtaining atomic weapons. Iran retaliated with multiple missile and drone strikes on Israeli territory and on the U.S. Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. Trump later dubbed the confrontation the “12 Day War,” evoking parallels to the 1967 Six Day War.
His administration has framed U.S. airstrikes on Iran’s infrastructure as necessary to dismantle Tehran’s nuclear capabilities, while critics warn that the maximum pressure campaign could deepen humanitarian crises.
International and Regional Response
Global leaders cautiously welcomed Trump’s announcement. France and Saudi Arabia had urged de-escalation in recent days, and Qatar’s role as mediator drew praise for its diplomatic channels.
Iran’s Foreign Minister insisted that Iran would only cease hostilities if Israel first halted its strikes—a condition that underscores lingering mistrust. Regional powers, including Turkey and Egypt, issued statements urging both sides to adhere to the truce and pursue a broader peace dialogue.
The U.N. Special Envoy called for an immediate, unconditional ceasefire, warning that civilian casualties and displacement could surge without a lasting diplomatic solution.
Impact on San Diego Community
In San Diego, home to vibrant Jewish and Iranian-American populations, reactions ranged from cautious optimism to skepticism. Local peace advocacy groups held a small vigil in Balboa Park, urging community members to support humanitarian aid to civilians on both sides.
Downtown protesters voiced doubts about whether the ceasefire would hold, pointing to past breakdowns in similar agreements. At the same time, local synagogues and mosques joined interfaith services to pray for lasting peace and for San Diegans with loved ones affected by the conflict.
Hanna Crosby / Economic and Political Strategist Writer (Times Media Service)
SoCal economic & political strategist, business consultant, and journalist covering fiscal policy and community impact.
hcrosby@timesmediaservice.com
