United States President Donald Trump grew visibly angry at Israel over Iran ceasefire violations on Tuesday, hours after celebrating the truce. The agreement, brokered by the United States and Qatar, had aimed to stop two weeks of mutual air and drone attacks.
Late Monday, the ceasefire took effect following days of intense missile exchanges. Israel’s final barrage hit Iranian military bases near Isfahan, triggering drone retaliation from Tehran. By Tuesday afternoon, both sides had paused military action, offering hope the truce might last.
However, Trump accused both countries of breaching the deal, but he directed most of his outrage at Israel. “I’m not happy with Iran either,” he told reporters on the White House Lawn, “but Israel went out this morning and dropped a load of bombs.”
While leaving for a NATO summit in The Hague, Trump vented further frustration. His anger seemed particularly focused on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Earlier Tuesday, Trump posted on social media urging Israel to halt strikes immediately.
“ISRAEL. DO NOT DROP THOSE BOMBS,” he wrote in all caps. “IF YOU DO IT IS A MAJOR VIOLATION.” Netanyahu’s office later claimed Israel did conduct one final strike but then agreed to pause further actions. Iran denied breaking the ceasefire and claimed Israel’s air strikes continued 90 minutes beyond the start time. Iranian officials said they would refrain from retaliation as long as Israel held back.
Trump continued to back the ceasefire despite the shaky start, emphasizing he had no interest in regime change in Iran. He also claimed credit for halting the war and for bombing three Iranian nuclear sites over the weekend. Iran stated over 400 citizens died in those strikes.
