June 24, 2025 – Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that Iran and Israel have agreed to a phased-in ceasefire, expected to take full effect within the next 24 hours. The declaration follows weeks of heightened tensions and escalating military actions that have sparked global concern and widespread diplomatic efforts.
A Surprising Announcement
Speaking during a press conference at Mar-a-Lago, Trump revealed that negotiations were facilitated through back-channel diplomacy involving Middle Eastern and European intermediaries. While neither Iran nor Israel has yet issued formal confirmation, Trump insisted that the groundwork for peace has already been laid.
“I can tell you it’s happening. A ceasefire is coming. Iran and Israel have both agreed, and we’re going to see it begin step by step over the next 24 hours,” Trump stated.
A Phased Process
According to Trump, the ceasefire will occur in multiple stages:
- Stage 1 (Within 6 Hours): Immediate halt to air strikes and missile launches.
- Stage 2 (12–18 Hours): De-escalation of ground troop movements along contested borders.
- Stage 3 (24 Hours): Full ceasefire and commencement of dialogue through international mediators.
He added that “trust-building measures” will also be included, such as the release of certain political detainees and reopening of humanitarian aid corridors.
Global Response
The international community has responded cautiously but with optimism. The United Nations welcomed the announcement, with Secretary-General António Guterres stating that “any move toward peace and the reduction of hostilities is a step in the right direction.”
European Union leaders also issued a joint statement urging both countries to honour the agreement in full, while remaining wary of possible breakdowns, given the history of fragile truces in the region.
Skepticism and Silence
Despite Trump’s claims, both Iranian and Israeli officials have remained tight-lipped. The Israeli Prime Minister’s office declined to comment, while Iranian state media has yet to publish any official statement on the ceasefire proposal.
Some analysts view Trump’s announcement as premature. “Until we hear from both governments directly, it’s difficult to verify the substance of this deal,” said Dr. Lila Nasari, a Middle East foreign policy expert.
Trump’s Role and Political Impact
Trump has portrayed himself as a peace broker in past international conflicts, including his historic meetings with North Korea’s Kim Jong-un and the Abraham Accords. This latest development could bolster his image as a negotiator, especially as he remains a central figure in American political discourse ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Critics, however, question the transparency and legitimacy of his involvement, pointing out that he holds no official diplomatic post.
“This could either be a breakthrough or another self-promotional tactic. Without confirmation, it’s all speculation,” commented David Michaels, a former U.S. State Department adviser.
What Happens Next?
If the ceasefire holds, it could mark a rare moment of de-escalation between Iran and Israel, who have been locked in a shadow war of proxy conflicts, cyberattacks, and military strikes for years.
Observers from the United Nations and the Red Crescent are reportedly being positioned to monitor early developments on the ground, particularly in regions like southern Lebanon, the Golan Heights, and strategic parts of Syria.
Final Thoughts
While Donald Trump’s declaration has sparked headlines and cautious hope, the situation remains fluid. The next 24 hours will be crucial in determining whether this ceasefire turns into a meaningful peace process—or becomes another brief pause in an ongoing cycle of conflict.
