On Wednesday, Israeli defense systems intercepted Iranian missiles over Jerusalem and the West Bank, just over an hour after President Donald Trump declared a two-week bilateral ceasefire with Iran. This incident underscores the fragility of the agreement, which was part of Operation Epic Fury.
In addition to Jerusalem, the sound of intercepted missiles echoed through Tel Aviv. The Israel Defense Forces identified the projectiles originating from Iranian territory and, as reported by Israeli media, retaliated by targeting the launch sites within Iran.
Simultaneously, Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates issued alerts and activated their air defenses in response to the wave of attacks, according to Reuters.
Israeli media had anticipated these assaults, noting that the ceasefire would only become effective once Iran reopened the Strait of Hormuz. This critical condition of the agreement is vital, as approximately 20% of the world's oil supply passes through this strait.
Trump made the ceasefire announcement via his Truth Social platform on Tuesday night, less than two hours before the deadline he had set for 8 p.m. Eastern Time. Earlier that day, Trump had issued a stark warning, threatening to obliterate an entire civilization if Iran failed to reopen the strait. This marked his fourth ultimatum since March 21, 2026.
The mediation efforts were spearheaded by Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, the head of Pakistan's army. They relayed Iran's 10-point proposal to Washington, which Trump described as a "viable basis" for negotiation. Sharif announced an invitation for delegations from both countries to meet in Islamabad on Friday.
In a statement to the AFP, Trump expressed confidence in the agreement, saying, "We have a 15-point transaction, most of which are favorable," and proudly deemed it "a total and complete victory. 100 percent. No doubt about it."
Frequently Asked Questions About Israel-Iran Tensions
Why did Iran launch missiles towards Israel?
The missile launch by Iran is perceived as a response to ongoing tensions and disagreements with Israel, particularly surrounding the implementation of the recent ceasefire agreement.
What is the significance of the Strait of Hormuz in the ceasefire agreement?
The Strait of Hormuz is a strategically vital waterway, with around 20% of global oil shipments passing through it. Reopening it was a central condition for the ceasefire, as it impacts global oil supply and economic stability.