Iran and Israel Pause Strikes, Warn of Retaliation if Ceasefire Breached

Iran and Israel have announced a pause in their recent aerial exchanges, following a direct confrontation that marked a significant escalation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel was holding fire "at the moment," but emphasized that the broader struggle against Iran and Hezbollah was ongoing. This announcement came hours after Iran's armed forces declared an end to their operations, promising "more severe and crushing measures" should Israel launch further strikes. The recent hostilities began Sunday when Tehran launched missiles at Israel in retaliation for a strike on Beirut. Israel responded early Monday with strikes targeting what it described as military sites within Iran. U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed he had spoken with Netanyahu, advising a cautious approach. An Israeli official indicated that strikes were halted at Trump's request, with the president reportedly telling Netanyahu to "use sense" as a "very powerful deal" was nearing completion. Trump also warned Netanyahu he might find himself "on your own very soon" if he returned to war with Iran. Netanyahu, in a televised statement, asserted Israel's right to self-defense. The exchange continued into Monday morning, with Iran reportedly launching more missiles toward Israel and Israel striking a petrochemical complex in Mahshahr, which an Israeli official identified as a site for ballistic missile chemical production. Casualties were also reported in Lebanon following an Israeli strike.

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Israel has a full right to self-defence, and we are exercising it as required.