In a dramatic turn of events that threatens to shatter a fragile truce, Iran launched at least one ballistic missile at Israel shortly after a ceasefire had reportedly taken effect. The missile strike, which was intercepted without immediate casualties, has triggered a forceful response directive from Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, escalating the already tense standoff between the two nations.
The ceasefire, announced earlier by former U.S. President Donald Trump and mediated in part by Qatar, was intended to halt hostilities after nearly two weeks of intense missile exchanges and airstrikes. Iran’s foreign ministry stated that it accepted the ceasefire conditionally, warning that continued Israeli military action would nullify the agreement.
Despite this declaration, within hours of the announced truce, Israel reported incoming ballistic missiles from Iran. This included an earlier wave that struck the southern Israeli city of Beersheba, killing at least four people and injuring approximately twenty. Some of the injured were reported in serious condition, and residential buildings sustained direct hits.
In response to these developments, Defense Minister Katz instructed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to initiate an "unprecedented" retaliatory campaign. Katz directed strikes against key Iranian infrastructure including symbols of the regime, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) sites, and Basij paramilitary bases. He stated that operations will continue until all objectives are fully accomplished.
This latest exchange comes after a rapid series of escalations over the past week. Iran had launched more than 400 missiles and over 1,000 drones toward Israel during the height of the conflict, although Israeli defenses intercepted the majority of them. However, a small number reached populated areas, causing casualties and damage, notably in Beersheba and even striking the Soroka Medical Center.
Globally, the situation has drawn sharp attention. The United States confirmed that one Iranian missile targeted the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, a key American military installation, although it was intercepted with no reported casualties. Germany and China have both issued calls for restraint and renewed diplomatic efforts.
The ceasefire’s durability now appears uncertain, as both sides continue military operations. While Iran holds Israel responsible for violating terms by continuing airstrikes, Israel views Iran’s missile launch as a blatant breach of the agreement. Neither side has offered clear confirmation of halting hostilities as of now.
As tensions climb once again, international observers warn that the next 24 to 48 hours could determine whether the ceasefire holds or collapses into a wider regional conflict. The situation remains fluid, with diplomatic channels still active but overshadowed by growing military action.