What ceasefire? Iran & Israel still bombing each other

In a surprising twist, Iran and Israel reportedly reached a ceasefire agreement on June 24, 2025, following intense diplomatic efforts to halt their escalating conflict. Yet, mere hours after the announcement, both nations unleashed a barrage of missiles, casting serious doubt on the truce's viability.

You can't get more shamelessly desperate than @realDonaldTrump. Hey, stupid right-wing POTUS, the Nobel Peace Prize is a leftist award. Why do right-wing people the world over want to be validated and certified by the left? pic.twitter.com/1S0O1XpFUi

— Surajit Dasgupta (@surajitdasgupta) June 21, 2025

The agreement, brokered through intermediaries—with United States President Donald Trump claiming credit for the so-called truce too—was intended to de-escalate a conflict that has gripped the region; however, the immediate resumption of hostilities suggests a deep mistrust.

Escalation defies diplomacy

The ceasefire was intended to pause a cycle of violence that intensified after a series of tit-for-tat strikes. Israel’s military targeted sites in Iran, citing threats to its security, while Iran responded with missile salvos aimed at Israeli territory. According to sources, the deal included a mutual stand-down, with both sides agreeing to halt offensive operations.

However, eyewitnesses reported explosions in Tel Aviv and Tehran shortly after the announcement, signalling that neither side was adhering to the terms.

POTUS @realDonaldTrump knows no limit to bragging and lying. He claims Iran has agreed to beginning the ceasefire, after which Israel might keep bombing it for some time before halting its ops too! Why would any country agree to such a ridiculously suicidal plan for a truce? pic.twitter.com/PT1RKXCQbo

— Surajit Dasgupta (@surajitdasgupta) June 24, 2025

“We will not tolerate aggression,” said an Israeli official, who accused Iran of violating the truce first. Iran’s foreign ministry countered, claiming, “Our response was defensive, provoked by Israel’s actions.”

These conflicting narratives highlight the fragile nature of the agreement, which was meant to prevent a broader regional war. Analysts suggest that domestic pressures and longstanding enmity are undermining efforts to maintain peace.

Regional tensions soar

The breakdown of the ceasefire has alarmed neighbouring countries, with fears that the conflict could spill over. Jordan and Lebanon have reported heightened security measures, while international mediators, including the United Nations, urged both nations to recommit to the truce.

“This is a critical moment for the region,” a UN spokesperson stated, stressing the need for restraint to avoid further escalation.

Global powers weigh in

Global reactions have been swift, with the US and Russia calling for calm while accusing each other of exacerbating the situation. The US, a key ally of Israel, condemned Iran’s missile strikes, while Russia criticised Israel’s preemptive actions.

Meanwhile, humanitarian groups warned of the devastating toll on civilians, with reports of casualties mounting in both countries. The ceasefire’s collapse has left diplomats scrambling to salvage negotiations, but the renewed violence suggests a long road ahead.

As missiles continue to fly, the region braces for what could become a protracted conflict. The fleeting hope of peace has been overshadowed by the reality of ongoing warfare, leaving the international community searching for a path to de-escalation.