Context:

Iran launched multiple missile barrages at Israeli cities including Haifa, Tel Aviv, and Beersheba, as well as targeting the Dimona nuclear reactor just hours before a ceasefire was set to begin. The ceasefire, brokered by President Trump, aims to end a 12-day conflict that saw significant damage to Iran's nuclear facilities by Israeli and U.S. forces. The attacks resulted in multiple casualties and were partly in retaliation for a recent U.S. strike on Iran's nuclear sites. Prior to launching missiles at an American base in Qatar, Iran communicated its intentions through Qatar to the U.S., indicating a complex diplomatic exchange. The ceasefire marks a significant diplomatic effort by Trump, who engaged in discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to conclude the hostilities.

Dive Deeper:

• Iran's missile attacks targeted major Israeli cities and the Dimona nuclear reactor, causing multiple casualties just two hours before the ceasefire was due to begin. These strikes were a direct response to the ongoing hostilities and recent U.S. military actions against Iran's nuclear capabilities.

• The ceasefire agreement, announced by President Trump, is set to conclude a 12-day war characterized by the destruction of significant portions of Iran's nuclear program by coordinated Israeli and U.S. efforts.

• Iran also targeted an American military base in Qatar with missile strikes, which were executed in retaliation for the U.S. attack on Iran's nuclear facilities over the preceding weekend.

• In an unusual diplomatic move, Iran communicated its planned missile targets to the Trump administration through Qatar, demonstrating a strategic exchange of information amidst the conflict.

• Trump's announcement of the ceasefire came after intensive diplomatic negotiations, including a direct conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, highlighting a concerted effort to de-escalate tensions in the region.