Iran, Israel Halt Strikes But Warn of Retaliation

Iran and Israel have declared an end to their recent cross-border strikes, a move that potentially averts a wider regional conflict. The announcements came hours apart, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stating that "the fire on that front is contained," shortly after Tehran confirmed it had ceased its military actions.

The recent escalation saw Iran launch missiles toward Israel, reportedly in response to Israel's ongoing conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon. Israel subsequently retaliated, despite reported efforts by then-US President Donald Trump to dissuade Netanyahu. This led to another round of Iranian missile launches before Tehran announced its decision to cease fire. Iran had previously linked its truce with the US to Israel's actions in Lebanon, warning of further engagement if Israeli strikes persisted.

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

Despite the declared halt, both sides issued stern warnings against resuming hostilities. Iran stated it would attack again if Israel continued its strikes in Lebanon, while Netanyahu cautioned that any resumption of attacks by Iran would be met with a "full force" response. Earlier, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz had indicated that operations in Lebanon would continue regardless, vowing retaliation for attacks by Hezbollah.

While no casualties were reported in Iran or Israel following the direct exchange, violence persisted in southern Lebanon. Israeli strikes resulted in multiple fatalities across different districts, according to the Lebanese health ministry. The Israeli military reported intercepting projectiles aimed at its troops in southern Lebanon and a "suspicious aerial target" from Yemen, though no injuries were sustained.

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should Iran "make the mistake of resuming attacks against us, we will respond with full force".