Trump Declares Iran Ceasefire Over Following Massive Strikes

The US President’s rhetoric marks a sharp escalation, as he labeled Iranian leadership "sick" and "vicious" while casting doubt on the utility of further diplomatic talks. Despite his assertion that the deal is effectively dead, Trump noted that US representatives would remain at the table, though he signaled little hope for a productive outcome. The administration also revoked a license previously authorizing Iranian oil sales, further tightening economic pressure on Tehran.

The recent military operation, described by officials as significantly larger in scope and power than strikes carried out ten days ago, hit targets during the ongoing funeral period for Iran's late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Tehran responded with its own strikes against Bahrain and Kuwait, warning of a "crushing response." Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran’s chief negotiator, condemned the US actions as blatant aggression and a violation of the memorandum, insisting that the era of Western bullying has concluded. While both nations remain technically engaged in negotiations, the cycle of retaliatory fire threatens to pull the Middle East into a wider regional conflict.