Indications of a Ceasefire in Israel-Iran Conflict Iran's Foreign Minister Suggests Hostilities May Be Over
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed gratitude to the nation's military forces, noting that military actions against Israel persisted up until 4 a.m., signaling a possible end to the current conflict. In a post on X, Araghchi stated, “Our powerful Armed Forces continued operations to hold Israel accountable until the final moment, at 4 a.m.”
He had earlier indicated that Iran would cease its military retaliation if Israel halted its attacks by that time, which is 4 a.m. in Tehran—half an hour ahead of Israel. His latest post came shortly after that deadline in Israeli local time.
“I extend my thanks to our courageous Armed Forces, who are always prepared to defend Iran and responded to aggression until the very end,” Araghchi said.
No Formal Truce Yet, Says Iranian Foreign Minister
Despite signs of a possible pause in fighting, Araghchi clarified that no formal ceasefire agreement had been reached with Israel. He reiterated Iran’s position, stating, “Israel initiated this conflict, not Iran.”
He added that Iran would not pursue further military action if Israel ended its offensive by 4 a.m. Tehran time. However, he emphasized, “At this point, there is no official agreement to suspend hostilities.” The final decision on whether to end Iran’s military response, he said, would be taken later.
Ceasefire Reportedly Reached Through Qatar-Led Diplomacy
A diplomat familiar with the matter said Iran agreed to a ceasefire proposal from the United States after discussions facilitated by Qatar. According to the source, US President Donald Trump enlisted the help of the Qatari Emir to negotiate a ceasefire following Iran’s retaliatory strikes on a US base in Qatar.
The deal was reportedly finalized Monday when Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani secured Iran’s acceptance. Trump then shared the news via social media. However, neither Tehran nor Jerusalem has officially confirmed the ceasefire agreement.
Qatar’s Role in Mediating the Truce
A source indicated that President Trump held talks with the Emir of Qatar and secured Israeli agreement to the ceasefire. He then requested Qatar’s assistance in persuading Iran to join the deal. Vice President JD Vance worked alongside Qatari officials to finalize the terms.
Iran eventually accepted the proposal after discussions between its representatives and Qatar’s leadership. Trump also engaged with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to complete Israel’s part of the agreement, US officials confirmed.
Conditions and Outcome of the Ceasefire
According to a White House official, Israel agreed to the ceasefire on the condition that Iran halt its attacks. Once Iran agreed, the ceasefire was in place. Key US figures including President Trump, Vice President Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff were involved in direct and indi