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Ceasefire Or Pause? Competing Narratives As Iran And Israel Step Back From The Brink
Photo credit: Israel Defense Forces
In a rapidly evolving situation that has gripped the world’s attention, conflicting messages emerged on Tuesday from Tehran, Tel Aviv, and Washington regarding the status of hostilities between Iran and Israel. While U.S. President Donald J. Trump publicly declared that a “complete and total CEASEFIRE” is in the offing, Iranian officials offered a more cautious and conditional assessment.
Seyed Abbas Araghchi, the Islamic Republic of Iran’s foreign minister, emphasized that Iran does not view itself as the aggressor in the recent conflict. “As Iran has repeatedly made clear,” he stated, “Israel launched war on Iran, not the other way around.” Araghchi further noted that, although there is currently no agreement on a ceasefire, Iran would refrain from further military action if Israel ceases its operations by 4:00 a.m. Tehran time. “The final decision on the cessation of our military operations will be made later,” he added, indicating a wait-and-see approach that hinges on Israeli behavior.
By contrast, Donald Trump struck an unmistakably triumphant tone in his statement, announcing a 24-hour phased ceasefire and describing the conclusion of what he dubbed “THE 12 DAY WAR.” According to Trump, Iran would begin the ceasefire, followed by Israel 12 hours later, culminating in a full cessation of hostilities. “On the assumption that everything works as it should, which it will,” Trump said, “I would like to congratulate both Countries… on having the Stamina, Courage, and Intelligence to end… what could have gone on for years.”
The dissonance between these messages is more than diplomatic theater—it reflects real uncertainty on the ground. Analysts caution that until both sides clearly and mutually acknowledge a formal agreement, the situation remains volatile. A single misstep, intentional or accidental, could unravel any progress toward de-escalation.
Despite the disparity in tone and substance, both Iran and Israel appear—at least for now—prepared to halt active exchanges. The coming hours will be crucial, not just in determining the viability of a ceasefire, but also in shaping the future contours of regional diplomacy.
For now, the world watches and waits.
Seyed Abbas Araghchi, the Islamic Republic of Iran’s foreign minister, emphasized that Iran does not view itself as the aggressor in the recent conflict. “As Iran has repeatedly made clear,” he stated, “Israel launched war on Iran, not the other way around.” Araghchi further noted that, although there is currently no agreement on a ceasefire, Iran would refrain from further military action if Israel ceases its operations by 4:00 a.m. Tehran time. “The final decision on the cessation of our military operations will be made later,” he added, indicating a wait-and-see approach that hinges on Israeli behavior.
By contrast, Donald Trump struck an unmistakably triumphant tone in his statement, announcing a 24-hour phased ceasefire and describing the conclusion of what he dubbed “THE 12 DAY WAR.” According to Trump, Iran would begin the ceasefire, followed by Israel 12 hours later, culminating in a full cessation of hostilities. “On the assumption that everything works as it should, which it will,” Trump said, “I would like to congratulate both Countries… on having the Stamina, Courage, and Intelligence to end… what could have gone on for years.”
The dissonance between these messages is more than diplomatic theater—it reflects real uncertainty on the ground. Analysts caution that until both sides clearly and mutually acknowledge a formal agreement, the situation remains volatile. A single misstep, intentional or accidental, could unravel any progress toward de-escalation.
Despite the disparity in tone and substance, both Iran and Israel appear—at least for now—prepared to halt active exchanges. The coming hours will be crucial, not just in determining the viability of a ceasefire, but also in shaping the future contours of regional diplomacy.
For now, the world watches and waits.
Jun 24, 2025
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