Tensions in the Middle East erupted again just hours after a U.S.-brokered cease-fire between Israel and Iran was declared—casting doubt on hopes for lasting peace and reigniting fears of renewed conflict. The fragile truce, announced early Tuesday after nearly two weeks of fierce fighting, was hailed as a breakthrough. But almost as soon as it began, the deal started to unravel under a storm of fresh missile attacks and clashing claims from both sides.
The agreement—negotiated with the help of President Trump—was meant to end 12 days of deadly exchanges that had already claimed dozens of lives and displaced thousands. For the international community, it was a much-needed pause in an already unstable region. For Israel and Iran, however, it became another platform for posturing—each declaring victory while preparing for what came next.
Within hours of the truce taking effect, Israeli defense officials reported that multiple missiles had been launched from Iranian territory, triggering air raid sirens across southern Israel. One of the strikes reportedly hit Beersheba, leaving several civilians dead and panic spreading fast. In response, Israel launched limited strikes against suspected missile sites in western Iran, warning that it was prepared to escalate if the attacks continued.
Iran quickly denied any involvement, accusing Israel of fabricating the incident to justify renewed military action. Conflicting reports flooded global media, making it nearly impossible for observers to determine who broke the cease-fire first—or whether misinformation had become just another weapon in the conflict.
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