The supposed ceasefire that Trump announced tonight came after Iran signaled it no longer wanted to fight, and Trump called Netanyahu and bluntly told him, “No more war,” a senior White House official said.

The phased ceasefire — where Iran would stop firing for 12 hours before Israel would do the same for another 12 hours — was Trump’s idea to appease Israeli concerns that Iran would not hold up its end of the deal, the official said.

Iran’s foreign minister has denied that his country has agreed to a ceasefire.

Over the past 48 hours, the president had been working the phones, according to the senior White House official. Another source familiar with the outreach told NBC News that Trump called the emir of Qatar earlier today to say he could get Israel to agree to a ceasefire if the emir could get Iran on board. Qatar’s prime minister then coordinated with Vice President JD Vance, and the prime minister spoke with the Iranians, the source said.

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Attacks likely to continue overnight even as ceasefire seemingly agreed

While Donald Trump does appear to have secured a ceasefire agreement between Iran and Israel, the conflict may not be over just yet.

That’s because Trump has presented a complicated picture of the deal in his social media post, in which he announced the pathway to an “official end” to the war.

The way he worded it suggests there are still a couple of caveats.

Let’s break down this key part of his post, as he worded it:

It has been fully agreed by and between Israel and Iran that there will be a Complete and Total CEASEFIRE (in approximately 6 hours from now, when Israel and Iran have wound down and completed their in progress, final missions!), for 12 hours, at which point the War will be considered, ENDED! Officially, Iran will start the CEASEFIRE and, upon the 12th Hour, Israel will start the CEASEFIRE and, upon the 24th Hour, an Official END to THE 12 DAY WAR will be saluted by the World.

He seems to be suggesting Israel and Iran would have some time to complete any missions under way, at which point the ceasefire will begin in a staged process.

This isn’t totally clear but, based on this wording, there may be points at which the ceasefire applies only to one side and not the other.

And he makes the point that both sides will complete their missions.

So we will, potentially, see more strikes in both countries over the coming hours.

This is picked up by our US correspondent Mark Stone, who said there are moments of high jeopardy in any ceasefire negotiations.

“And that could mean that the whole thing falls apart,” he said.

“So a really complicated message from Donald Trump, but the thrust of it appears to be… that both sides have agreed to this.

“As long as it can last – as long as there isn’t some huge moment either from one side or the other, which collapses everything – then this is a remarkable moment for diplomacy, and a remarkable moment for Donald Trump.”

Ceasefire has been reached between Israel and Iran, according to Donald Trump after what he has claimed was a “12-day war”.

The world leader said on Truth Social tonight both nations showed great “stamina, courage and intelligence” to reach an end to the conflict, he stresses “could have gone on for years”.

“On the assumption that everything works as it should, which it will, I would like to congratulate both Countries, Israel and Iran, on having the Stamina, Courage, and Intelligence to end, what should be called, ‘THE 12 DAY WAR.’ This is a War that could have gone on for years, and destroyed the entire Middle East, but it didn’t, and never will! God bless Israel, God bless Iran, God bless the Middle East, God bless the United States of America, and GOD BLESS THE WORLD,” part of a lengthy message reads.

Just hours previously, the President had issued a scathing taunt to Iran after they launched an attack on a US air base in Qatar but “13 were knocked down and one was ‘set free’ because it was headed in a nonthreatening direction’

He called it a “very weak response”. Meanwhile, initial reports from Iranian state media said a US base in Iraq had also been targeted but it is understood the Qatar attack was the only one detected.

Follow our live blog below…

Continuous updates; facts and sources are still being cross-checked.

Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.

President Donald Trump has announced the timeline for a “complete and total ceasefire” between Iran and Israel. In a Truth Social post on Monday evening, the president congratulated everyone for agreeing to the truce which he said would begin just six hours from now, at around midnight E.T. Trump said that Iran would begin the ceasefire, followed 12 hours later by Israel. If the ceasefire holds for 24 hours, the “war will be considered, ENDED!” What to Know: Trump’s ceasefire announcement came hours after Iran launched a missile strike on U.S. forces at Qatar’s Al Udeid Air Base.

Iran described the operation, on state television, as “a mighty and successful response to America’s aggression.

The attack came after the U.S. bombed multiple Iranian nuclear sites over the weekend.

Qatar said that its air defenses had “thwarted the attack and successfully intercepted the Iranian missiles.”

A defense official told Newsweek that no Americans had been killed in the Monday strike.

Trump previously thanked Iran for giving early notice of its attack on the military base, saying it saved American lives.

In his post celebrating the ceasefire, the president said, “This is a War that could have gone on for years, and destroyed the entire Middle East, but it didn’t, and never will!” Stay with Newsweek for live updates.

09:42 PM EDT IN PICTURES: Tel Aviv residents take shelter in underground parking garage amid Iranian strikes People spend the night in an underground parking garage as a precaution against possible Iranian missile attacks, in Tel Aviv, Israel, Monday, June 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg) People spend the night in an underground parking garage as a precaution against possible Iranian missile attacks, in Tel Aviv, Israel, Monday, June 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg) Ohad Zwigenberg/AP 23 June 2025, Israel, Tel Aviv: An Israeli man sleeps at an underground parking used as a shelter against Iranian missiles strikes. Photo by: Ilia Yefimovich/picture-alliance/dpa/AP Images 23 June 2025, Israel, Tel Aviv: An Israeli man sleeps at an underground parking used as a shelter against Iranian missiles strikes. Photo by: Ilia Yefimovich/picture-alliance/dpa/AP Images Ilia Yefimovich/AP People hug next to a mock rocket in an underground parking garage that they and others are using as a safety precaution against possible Iranian missile attacks, in Tel Aviv, Israel, Monday, June 23, 2025…. People hug next to a mock rocket in an underground parking garage that they and others are using as a safety precaution against possible Iranian missile attacks, in Tel Aviv, Israel, Monday, June 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty) More Oded Balilty/AP

09:32 PM EDT Qatar Airways resumes its flights after Trump’s ceasefire announcement Qatar Airways has resumed its flights following Iran’s attack on an American military base on its soil. The airspace over Iran was shut down immediately after the attack.

09:22 PM EDT No reports of Israeli strikes in Iran after 4 a.m. There have been no reports of Israeli strikes on Iran after 4 a.m. – after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that his nation had stopped its retaliatory attacks on Israel at the same time.

09:20 PM EDT Iran says it continued attacks on Israel ‘until the very last minute’ Iran’s Foreign Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi says that Iran continued its attacks on Israel “until the very last minute.” “The military operations of our powerful Armed Forces to punish Israel for its aggression continued until the very last minute,” he said in a post on X. “Together with all Iranians, I thank our brave Armed Forces who remain ready to defend our dear country until their last drop of blood, and who responded to any attack by the enemy until the very last minute. The military operations of our powerful Armed Forces to punish Israel for its aggression continued until the very last minute, at 4am.

Together with all Iranians, I thank our brave Armed Forces who remain ready to defend our dear country until their last drop of blood, and who… — Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) June 24, 2025

09:02 PM EDT Iran says ‘no agreement’ but will halt strikes if Israel stops Iran’s Foreign Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, denied the existence of a formal ceasefire “agreement” Monday, but he has said that Iran is ready to halt its strikes, if Israel did the same. “As Iran has repeatedly made clear: Israel launched war on Iran, not the other way around,” Araghchi said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, shortly before 9 p.m. ET. “As of now, there is NO “agreement” on any ceasefire or cessation of military operations. However, provided that the Israeli regime stops its illegal aggression against the Iranian people no later than 4 a.m. Tehran time, we have no intention to continue our response afterwards. The final decision on the cessation of our military operations will be made later.” Araghchi’s post was made shortly after 4 a.m. Tehran time. As Iran has repeatedly made clear: Israel launched war on Iran, not the other way around.

As of now, there is NO “agreement” on any ceasefire or cessation of military operations. However, provided that the Israeli regime stops its illegal aggression against the Iranian people no… — Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) June 24, 2025

08:50 PM EDT Tehran comes under intense air strikes ahead of Trump’s ceasefire deadline Iran’s capital of Tehran has come under intense air strikes from Israel as President Donald Trump’s ceasefire deadline approaches. Local media reports that Mehrabad airport had been struck multiple times while local residents have reported hearing loud explosions across the city, the New York Times reports. Earlier on Monday night, Israel’s military had warned Iranians to evacuate central Tehran, as well as some military and intelligence targets.

08:39 PM EDT WATCH: Moment people flee Qatar mall after Iran attacks US base

08:34 PM EDT Netanyahu meeting with narrow security cabinet: Report Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is meeting with his senior security cabinet, CNN reports, citing a source. The meting comes after President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran on Monday. Neither Iran nor Israel has officially confirmed the ceasefire. Netanyahu’s meeting with his narrow security cabinet comes after meeting with his broader security cabinet, CNN reports.

08:21 PM EDT Drone targets Iraq military base, says state news agency An unidentified drone targeted Iraq’s Taji military base, near Baghdad, according to the state news agency. It is not clear who fired the drone or if it is connected to the Israel-Iran war. There were no casualties, the official said.

08:17 PM EDT Rep. Massie says bipartisan resolution not needed if ceasefire goes ahead Republican Representative Thomas Massie said that he would not need to bring his bipartisan resolution to the floor to reassert Congress’ war powers. “If the cease-fire holds and we’re not engaged in hostilities, then it’s a moot point,” he told reporters Monday at the Capitol. “I wouldn’t need to bring it to the floor. I just spoke with the speaker about that.”

08:05 PM EDT Vance says US strikes on Iran were to ‘bury the uranium’ Vice President JD Vance said on Monday that the goal of the American strikes in

Iran “was to bury the uranium, and I do think the uranium is buried.” “The goal was to eliminate the enrichment and eliminate their ability to convert that enriched fuel into a nuclear weapon. I actually just, I think that’s an important point,” Vance said during an appearance on Fox News shortly after Trump’s ceasefire announcement. “While we have obliterated the Iranian nuclear program, our hope and our expectation is that they’re not going to try to rebuild that program.” “While we have obliterated the Iranian nuclear program, our hope and our expectation is that they’re not going to try to rebuild that program,” @JDVance says after ceasefire announcement. pic.twitter.com/2Kkobs0M8J — Natalie Allison (@natalie_allison) June 23, 2025

07:49 PM EDT Trump says Iran-Israel ceasefire will last ‘forever’ President Trump said that he believes the ceasefire between Iran and Israel “is going to go forever.” “I think the ceasefire is unlimited, Trump added in an interview with NBC News. The president said he was sure that the war was over and that Israel and Iran will never be “shooting at each other again.” “It’s a great day for America. It’s a great day for the Middle East. I’m very happy to have been able to get the job done,” he said.

07:44 PM EDT WATCH: Trump says Iran and Israel have agreed to ‘complete and total ceasefire’

07:38 PM EDT Israel, Iran offer no comment on Trump’s ceasefire announcement Neither Iran nor Israel have publicly commented on President Donald Trump’s ceasefire announcement. Iran’s mission declined to comment on the truce when reached by Newsweek on Monday evening. Israel also offered no immediate comment when reached by the Associated Press.

07:34 PM EDT Trump got Israel to agree to ceasefire, spoke with Qatar’s Emir: Report President Donald Trump got Israel to agree to the ceasefire deal, a diplomat told Fox News on Monday. Trump then spoke with Qatar’s Emir Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani to inform him of Israel’s position, and ask him to persuade Iran to agree to the truce, the official said. Al Thani was able to get Iran to agree. JD Vance then worked out the details with Qatar’s Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, he added. Diplomat briefed on the ceasefire talks to Fox News:

“President Trump spoke with Qatar’s Emir and informed him the U.S. got Israel to agree to a ceasefire with Iran. The President asked Qatar to help persuade Iran to do the same, following that Vice President Vance coordinated… — Trey Yingst (@TreyYingst) June 23, 2025

07:19 PM EDT Johnson praises ceasefire as Trump’s ‘remarkable achievement’ House Speaker Mike Johnson has praised President Donald Trump after he announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. “It’s a really remarkable achievement,” said Republican representative said. “President Trump deserves all the credit. “This is what peace through strength looks like. We haven’t seen this in a while, and it’s really a big sigh of relief here on Capitol Hill.”

07:17 PM EDT ‘The Iranian nation isn’t a nation that surrenders’: Iran Supreme Leader warned before Trump announcement Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned that his country wasn’t “a nation that surrenders” shortly before Trump’s ceasefire announcement. “Those who know the Iranian people and their history know that the Iranian nation isn’t a nation that surrenders,” he posted on X. Those who know the Iranian people and their history know that the Iranian nation isn’t a nation that surrenders. — Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) June 23, 2025

07:09 PM EDT Iran has not received any ceasefire proposal, says official Iran has not yet received a ceasefire proposal, a senior Iranian official told CNN, shortly before President Trump’s announcement. They added that comments from the U.S., and Israel, were “a deception” to justify attacks on Iran.

06:56 PM EDT WATCH: Jeffries questions Iran attack: ‘Did Donald Trump tell the truth?’

06:51 PM EDT Explosion heard in Iran’s capital A large blast has been heard in Iran’s capital, Tehran, shortly after Israel gave an evacuation warning for regions of the city which has a population of more than 16 million in the wider metropolitan area. Witnesses on the ground reported hearing the loud explosion shortly after 2 a.m local time.

06:48 PM EDT JD Vance says Israel-Iran war ‘an important reset moment for the entire region’ Vice President JD Vance said on Monday, following President Donald Trump’s ceasefire announcement, that the world will look back on the Israel-Iran war and America’s involvement, as “an important reset moment for the entire region.” The vice president said that the Trump administration hopes Iran has learned its lesson, if they try and build a nuclear weapon “they’re going to have to deal with a very, very powerful American military again.”

06:43 PM EDT Iran issues evacuation warning for suburb of Tel Aviv: Report Iran has issued an evacuation warning to residents in the Ramat Gan suburb of Tel Aviv, according to country’s Mehr News Agency. The alerts follows a warning from the Israeli military to evacuate areas of Tehran. “Iran warns Israeli settlers to urgently evacuate the Ramat Gan region,” Mehr posted.

06:41 PM EDT Over 80% of Americans worried about Iran conflict growing after US strikes A new poll by Reuters and Ipsos shows that 84 percent of Americans are concerned about the conflict between the United States and Iran intensifying after President Donald Trump authorized strikes on Iranian nuclear sites over the weekend. In the poll conducted from June 21 to June 23 among 1,139 U.S. adults, 84 percent of Americans are concerned about the conflict growing compared to 15 percent who said they are not worried. The poll shows that 32 percent of Americans support continued airstrikes on Iran compared to 49 percent who don’t. Republicans are more supportive of potential ongoing strikes, as the poll shows that 62 percent approve versus 22 percent who do not. Only 12 percent of Democrats support additional strikes versus 74 percent who do not. The poll has a margin of error of 3 percentage points. Read in full from Anna Commander on Newsweek.

06:34 PM EDT US lifts ‘shelter in place’ alert for Americans in Qatar The State Department has lifted the “shelter in place” warning to Americans in Qatar. The news came as President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, which is set to start at midnight E.T. The U.S. embassy in Doha, which had also instructed official personnel to stay inside, has now revoked the guidance.

06:20 PM EDT Trump says ‘complete and total ceasefire’ will begin in six hours President Donald Trump has announced the timeline for a “complete and total ceasefire” between Iran and Israel. In a Truth Social post, the president congratulated everyone involved for agreeing to the truce which he said would begin in just six hours from now, around midnight ET, to give Israel and Iran time to wind down their missions. Trump said that if the ceasefire held for 12 hours, the “war will be considered, ENDED!”

06:18 PM EDT WATCH: Trump’s Iran attack ‘protected’ Americans freedom: Kristi Noem

06:11 PM EDT Trump announces ceasefire President Donald Trump has announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran.

04:57 PM EDT US military official says no US bases targeted in Iraq An American military official said that no U.S. bases were targeted in Iraq after an earlier alert. The official said that a malfunctioning Iranian missile that was aimed at Israel had triggered the Iraq alert.

04:53 PM EDT President Trump thanks Qatar’s leader President Donald Trump has thanked the leader of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, “for all that he has done in seeking Peace for the Region.” Qatar’s air defense system intercepted the Iranian missiles aimed at the U.S. military base on its soil on Monday. Trump added that he was “pleased to report that, in addition to no Americans being killed or wounded, very importantly, there have also been no Qataris killed or wounded.”

04:47 PM EDT Qatar says Iranian missile directly struck military base A Qatari military official said that one of Iran’s missiles directly struck the U.S air base in Qatar on Monday. Maj. Gen. Shayeq Al Hajri, speaking at a press conference, said that Iran had fired seven missiles in its first round, which had all been intercepted over the Persian Gulf by Qatari air defenses. He said that Iran then fired another 12 more missiles, 11 of which were intercepted, but one hit the U.S. base. It is not clear how much damage the missile caused but Al Hajri said that it has caused no casualties. President Trump said in a post on Truth Social this afternoon that Iran had fired 14 missiles and that one was “set free” because it did not pose a threat. He also said there had been no casualties, and no injuries.

04:34 PM EDT Trump announces that it’s time for world peace President Trump has announced that it’s “time for peace” in the wake of the Iranian attacks on a U.S. military base. “Congratulations world,” he posted on his social media platform Truth Social, “It’s time for peace.”

04:23 PM EDT Trump calls Iran strike on US base a ‘weak response’ President Trump has dismissed the Iranian missile strike on a U.S. air base in Qatar as a “weak response” to the American attacks on the nation’s nuclear sites. “Iran has officially responded to our Obliteration of their Nuclear Facilities with a very weak response, which we expected, and have very effectively countered,” Trump said in a Truth Social post. He added that of the 14 missiles fired, 13 were countered while one was “set free” because it was “headed in a nonthreatening direction.” “Most importantly, they’ve gotten it all out of their “system,” and there will, hopefully, be no further HATE,” he added, before acknowledging that Iran had let both the U.S. and Qatar know of their attack ahead of time in an attempt to reduce casualties and injuries.

04:17 PM EDT Trump thanks Iran for ‘early notice’ on US base strike President Donald Trump thanked Iran for giving early notice of its attack on a U.S. military base in Qatar, saying it saved American lives. In a post on Truth Social, the president said that he was “pleased to report that NO Americans were harmed, and hardly any damage was done” in the missile strikes. “I want to thank Iran for giving us early notice, which made it possible for no lives to be lost, and nobody to be injured,” he added. “Perhaps Iran can now proceed to Peace and Harmony in the Region, and I will enthusiastically encourage Israel to do the same.”

04:13 PM EDT White House still hasn’t briefed the ‘Gang of Eight’ on Iran The White House has still not briefed the “Gang of Eight” on the Iran strikes, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Monday. The Gang of Eight is set of eight leaders within the United States Congress who are briefed on classified intelligence matters by the executive branch. They include the leaders of the two parties from both the Senate and House of Representatives, as well as the chairs and ranking minority members from the Senate Committee and House Committee for intelligence. “There’s zero evidence that I’ve seen that the nuclear program was completely and totally obliterated, as Donald Trump has claimed,” Jeffries said.

04:00 PM EDT Khamenei issues defiant first response to U.S. strikes on Iran Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei broke his silence Monday following U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, declaring that Iran has not violated anyone and will not tolerate violations from others. “We will not surrender to anyone’s violation; this is the logic of the nation of Iran,” read a post on Khamenei’s official X account, accompanied by an image of a burning American flag and buildings engulfed in flames.

04:00 PM EDT AP defines Israel-Iran conflict as ‘war’ The Associated Press has said it is calling the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, a “war.” In an AP Stylebook guidance update, the news organization said that it was updating how it referred to the conflict, “given the scope, intensity and duration of military activities on both sides.” “Since Israel launched an air campaign targeting Iran’s military and nuclear program, there has been a significant escalation in the conflict. Iran has launched hundreds of missiles and drones into Israel. Israel has assassinated high-level Iranian officials, targeted the country’s infrastructure, called for hundreds of thousands of residents to evacuate Iran’s capital, Tehran, and said it will continue its offensive. Therefore, it is acceptable to use the word ‘war’ to refer to the conflict between Israel and Iran in all contexts, including in headlines, photo captions and video scripts,” the guidance update read. Despite the U.S.’s intervention in the war, and missile strikes on Iran, AP said it was not yet saying the U.S. and Iran are at war.

03:55 PM EDT UN chief backs diplomacy, warns against further escalation in Iran conflict UN Secretary-General António Guterres is actively supporting efforts to restore diplomacy amid the escalating U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict, according to his spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric. Speaking to reporters Monday, Dujarric said Guterres has “condemned every escalation” and is working publicly and privately to encourage dialogue. Asked about mediation offers from France and Russia, Dujarric noted that Oman has also played a constructive role and emphasized that “anyone that can help, should help.” “What we need to see is not more missiles going both ways or different ways,” he said. “What we need to see is… a return to diplomacy.” He warned that continued unilateral use of force and violations of international law would only increase regional instability.

03:51 PM EDT Defense official says U.S. Central Command ‘successfully defended’ against Iran attack An American defense official said that U.S. Central Command “successfully defended” against Iran attack on an air base in Qatar. “On June 23 at around 7:30pm (Qatar Time), Iran launched multiple missiles at Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar,” they told Newsweek. “There are no injuries to U.S. personnel.” The defense official added that the U.S. will “continue to take all necessary measures to protect and defend U.S. personnel, partners, and allies in the region.”

03:45 PM EDT FBI warns of possible Iran retaliation following strikes on nuclear sites Iranian entities or supporters are likely to target the United States following the strikes on three key-nuclear sites over the weekend, according to an internal memo from the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) reviewed by The New York Times. The FBI has warned that such groups “historically targeted U.S. interests in response to geopolitical events, and they are likely to increase their efforts in the near term,” NYT reported. FBI field offices across the nation have been told to watch out for people “who may be targeted for retaliation”, according to the report. The report also said that “specific attention should be paid to” U.S. military facilities following the strikes.

03:42 PM EDT Bahrain issues all-clear after regional attacks, urges vigilance Following reports of Iranian missile strikes in the region, Bahrain has not been targeted, according to the country’s government, which has issued an all-clear signal. The U.S. Embassy in Manama has advised American citizens to remain cautious, review their security plans, and stay alert for any future threats. As a precaution, the embassy recommends avoiding non-essential movement and maintaining heightened awareness of personal safety. The advisory comes amid rising tensions across the Gulf, with several neighboring countries closing their airspace and reinforcing security measures.

03:40 PM EDT Speaker Johnson defends Trump’s Iran strikes, opposes war powers vote House Speaker Mike Johnson said Monday he does not support efforts to require a congressional vote on authorizing military force in Iran, defending President Donald Trump’s use of executive authority under Article II of the Constitution. “The commander in chief has Article II responsibilities. They’re very serious and important, especially in times like this,” Johnson told reporters on Capitol Hill. “I think he used that authority judiciously.” Johnson dismissed bipartisan efforts to limit presidential war powers as “all politics,” even as lawmakers from both parties push for a vote on a War Powers Resolution following Trump’s strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.

03:39 PM EDT Iraq calls for diplomacy, not military options Iraq’s foreign ministry has called for restraint amid the escalating tensions between Iran and the U.S. “Regional crises can only be resolved through dialogue, resorting to diplomatic channels, and avoiding military options, which only bring further escalation and suffering,” the ministry said in a statement Monday. Iraq did not go as far as to directly critique Iran’s strikes on a U.S. base in Qatar, but did express “deep concern” over the acceleration in the region. The nation has also announced the complete closure of its airspace.

03:27 PM EDT U.S. intercepts Iranian missiles targeting Al Udeid base in Qatar U.S. forces successfully intercepted Iranian missiles aimed at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, according to two Pentagon officials who spoke on condition of anonymity. The officials confirmed that anti-missile batteries were activated during the attack, preventing any reported damage or casualties. The officials did not disclose whether Qatari forces participated in the interception effort. The missile strike was part of Iran’s retaliation for recent U.S. airstrikes on its nuclear facilities. Al Udeid, the most extensive U.S. base in the Middle East, had been placed on high alert before the attack amid escalating regional tensions.

03:26 PM EDT Witkoff still in communication with Iran officials through missile strikes Steve Witkoff, United States Special Envoy to the Middle East, has remain in contact with Iranian officials through the American strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites, CNN reports. President Donald Trump is still seeking a diplomatic resolution, sources told the network, despite the American strikes, and Iran’s retaliatory strikes on a U.S. base.

03:13 PM EDT Arab League chief condemns Iran’s missile strike, backs Qatar Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Abou-Gheit has expressed “complete solidarity” with Qatar following Iran’s missile attack on Al Udeid Air Base, calling the strike “unacceptable.” In a statement posted to X, Abou-Gheit warned that the military escalation poses serious risks to regional stability. “We remain hopeful that the current confrontation will be contained as soon as possible,” he wrote. The Arab League joins a growing list of regional powers denouncing the attack and urging a return to diplomacy to prevent further escalation.

03:09 PM EDT ‘What is the administration hiding?’ asks House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has criticized the Trump administration for allegedly failing to keep Congress informed about its missile strikes on Iran. Jeffries told a press briefing Monday that lawmakers had not received an initial briefing from the White House, as he emphasized that the power to declare war lay solely with Congress, according to the Constitution. “What is the administration hiding from the elected members of the United States Congress?” he asked. “We’ve seen no evidence to date that an offensive strike of this nature was justified under the war powers act. “Come up to Capitol Hill and convince the American people and their elected representatives in the House and Senate”

03:05 PM EDT WATCH: Possible missiles seen in Qatar sky as Iran launches strike

02:57 PM EDT Lebanon condemns Iran attack in Qatar Lebanese President, General Joseph Aoun, has condemned Iran’s Monday attack in Qatar. In a social media post, Aoun called the missile strike a “violation of the sovereignty of a sister nation and a step that will increase tensions in the region and expand the scope of military confrontations.” He warned that it would only have a negative impact on “ongoing efforts to de-escalate and return to the negotiating table.”

02:55 PM EDT Classified briefing held for House memebers A classified briefing is being held for all members of the House on Tuesday, according to a letter by Minority Leader Jeffries to Democrats. Senators will also receive a classified briefing tomorrow amid the rapidly escalating conflict with Iran. A classified briefing for all House members will be held tomorrow at 3pm ET “on the situation in the Middle East,” announced in letter by House Minority Leader Jeffries to House Democrats today. All Senators will also receive a classified briefing tomorrow afternoon on Iran, in… pic.twitter.com/JccP6uxcqV — Craig Caplan (@CraigCaplan) June 23, 2025

02:52 PM EDT Al Udeid: U.S. military’s strategic hub in the Middle East under fire U.S. President Donald J. Trump speaks to journalists on board the Air Force One as he departs the Al Udeid Air Base for Abu Dhabi on May 15, 2025, in Doha, Qatar. U.S. President Donald J. Trump speaks to journalists on board the Air Force One as he departs the Al Udeid Air Base for Abu Dhabi on May 15, 2025, in Doha, Qatar. Win McNamee/Getty Images Al Udeid Air Base, the largest U.S. military installation in the Middle East, was attacked by Iranian missiles on Monday, drawing renewed attention to its strategic importance. Located outside Doha, Qatar, the base serves as the forward headquarters for U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) and houses approximately 10,000 troops. Established in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, Al Udeid has played a central role in U.S. operations across the region—from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to airstrikes against ISIS in Syria. It also served as the main evacuation hub during the 2021 U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. The base is equipped with advanced air defenses, including Patriot missile systems, and hosts various aircraft, from stealth bombers to refueling tankers. Its Combined Air Operations Center coordinates missions across 21 countries, from Northeast Africa to Central Asia. Qatar completed construction of the base in 1996, investing over $8 billion to develop it as part of a long-term defense partnership with the U.S. and British Royal Air Force. The base remained classified until 2013, when then-Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel publicly acknowledged it. President Donald Trump visited Al Udeid in May, praising U.S. troops and Qatar’s military cooperation during a rally-style address. The visit came just weeks before the current escalation with Iran.

02:41 PM EDT Mike Johnson says he was briefed on Iran this morning House Speaker Mike Johnson said that he had been briefed on the Iran situation as early as this morning. Johnson told NBC News’ Jake Sherman that the retaliation from Iran had been “expected.” “So far, so good, no casualties, so far as we know,” he said, adding that the U.S. National Security Team were in the Situation Room monitoring the situation. When asked if he believed the missile strike on the American base in Qatar was a “symbolic” attack, Johnson declined to comment, saying he did not want his words to impact the events.

02:37 PM EDT Kuwait and Iraq join Gulf nations in closing airspace amid regional crisis Kuwait and Iraq have closed their airspace following recent attacks in the region, according to state media reports. The move aligns them with Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain, which had already taken similar steps amid escalating tensions tied to Iranian missile strikes. The closures are part of a broader wave of precautionary measures across the Gulf, as governments respond to growing security threats and the risk of further military escalation. The shutdowns have caused significant disruptions to regional air traffic and forced airlines to reroute flights.

02:30 PM EDT How Trump’s Iran attacks could help Putin Russia’s oil exports, which fund Vladimir Putin’s war machine, could get a boost in the aftermath of the U.S. attacks on Iran’s nuclear sites if Tehran makes good on its threat to close the Strait of Hormuz, energy experts have told Newsweek. Oil prices have surged and Iran, a key oil producer, has warned it could retaliate to the strikes by the U.S. and Israel by closing the world’s most strategic transit point for the commodity connecting the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. Iranian officials have threatened to mine the strait and as such U.S. military officials are preparing a plan for such a closure which could choke off a quarter of the world’s oil supply and a fifth of its liquefied natural gas, according to The New York Times. But this move may reverse months of declining Russian oil revenue, allowing Moscow to continue to finance its war against Ukraine. Read in full from Brendon Cole on Newsweek.

02:24 PM EDT Trump attacks media for questioning official accounts of US strikes on Iran President Donald Trump criticized the news media in a social media post on Monday over their descriptions of the U.S. strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites. Trump had posted over the weekend that the U.S. had “successfully” struck three nuclear sites in Iran, including Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. However, multiple reports emerged from CNN, the New York Times, NPR, and many more, that suggested that the damage inflicted was severe, but it was not clear the sites had been destroyed. On Monday, Trump furiously disputed those claims, writing on Truth Social, “The sites that we hit in Iran were totally destroyed, and everyone knows it. “Only the Fake News would say anything different in order to try and demean, as much as possible — And even they say they were “pretty well destroyed!” “It never ends with the sleazebags in the Media, and that’s why their Ratings are at an ALL TIME LOW — ZERO CREDIBILITY!”

02:22 PM EDT Saudi Arabia, UAE and Jordan condemn Iran’s strike on U.S. base in Qatar Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan have condemned Iran’s missile attack on the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, calling it a flagrant violation of international law, according to statements from their respective foreign ministries. All three nations expressed solidarity with Qatar, with Saudi Arabia pledging to deploy “all its capabilities to support” the country. The UAE and Jordan echoed calls for an immediate end to military operations and urged a return to diplomatic dialogue to prevent further regional escalation. The condemnation follows a wave of international concern over Iran’s retaliation for U.S. airstrikes on its nuclear facilities.

02:17 PM EDT Egypt’s national airliner cancels flights over Arab Gulf Egypt’s national airliner, EgyptAir, has canceled all flights between Cairo and the Arab Gulf countries “until the situation stabilizes in the region.”

02:03 PM EDT No US casualties in Iran missile attack, says defense official A U.S. defense official confirmed to Newsweek that no Americans had been killed by the Iran missile strikes on a U.S. military base in Qatar. “I can confirm that al Udeid Air Base was attacked by short-range and medium-range ballistic missiles originating from Iran today,” they said. The official added that they were “monitoring the situation closely” and said that “at this time, there are no reports of U.S. casualties.”

01:59 PM EDT Marjorie Taylor Greene warns Trump entering US into ‘Nuclear’ World War III Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Georgia Republican, warned on Monday that President Donald Trump is already “turning back on campaign promises” and that the U.S. is “entering” a nuclear war and “World War III” after the military carried out strikes on Iran over the weekend. “Six months in and here we are, turning back on campaign promises. And we bombed Iran on behalf of Israel. Yes, it was on behalf of Israel,” Greene, a staunch Trump ally, told Steve Bannon on his War Room podcast. “We are entering a nuclear war—the World War, the World War III, because the entire world is going to erupt.”

01:54 PM EDT Oil prices drop after Iran’s missile attack Oil prices fell more than 4 percent, below $71 a barrel, after Iran’s missile attack on a U.S. base in Qatar on Monday. Despite fears that the conflict on the Middle East could send oil prices sky rocketing, the market response to the strike could suggest that investors are relieved that Iran aimed for a military target, rather than closing the Strait of Hormuz. The narrow waterway, located between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, is the only way to ship crude oil from the Persian Gulf to the rest of the world. Iran controls its northern side. The S&P 500 also recovered, rising 0.8 percent after an earlier drop, while the Dow was also up 0.7 percent.

01:50 PM EDT WATCH: Timelapse shows Qatar airspace closing to air traffic

01:45 PM EDT Iran says it launched same number of missiles, as bombs dropped by US Iran said Monday that it had launched the same number of missiles against the American military base in Qatar, as the U.S. had dropped bombs on its nuclear sites over the weekend. Iran’s Supreme National Security Council said it also aimed for the Al Udeid Air Base because it was away from Qatari residential areas. The statement indicates Iran may seek to escalate its conflict and retaliatory attacks against the U.S.

01:41 PM EDT Iran claims ‘mighty’ response to US after Qatar strikes Iran declared on state television that it had launched a missile strike on U.S. forces at Qatar’s Al Udeid Air Base, describing the operation as “a mighty and successful response to America’s aggression,” accompanied by martial music and patriotic visuals. The attack followed Qatar’s decision to close its airspace amid rising tensions and explicit threats from Tehran. Moments before the explosions were reported, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian posted on X: “We neither initiated the war nor seek it. But we will not leave invasion to the great Iran without answer.”

01:38 PM EDT Iran’s security council says attack was not against ‘brotherly’ Qatar The Iranian Supreme National Security Council has attempted to de-escalate tensions with Qatar after it launched a missile strike at its neighbor, aimed at American military bases. “This action does not pose any threat to the friendly and brotherly country, Qatar, and its noble people, and the Islamic Republic of Iran remains committed to maintaining and continuing warm and historic relations with Qatar,” the council said in a statement. They added that the missile strike on al-Udeid air base was away from residential areas in Qatar. Qatar has condemned the strikes and said that it retains the right to retaliate against Iran.

01:35 PM EDT Qatar says it intercepted all Iran’s missiles The Qatari government said Monday that its air defenses “thwarted the attack and successfully intercepted the Iranian missiles.” They added that no casualties had been reported. “The State of Qatar strongly condemns the attack that targeted Al-Udeid Air Base by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard. We consider this a flagrant violation of the sovereignty of the State of Qatar, its airspace, international law, and the United Nations Charter,” a spokesperson for the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on X. “We affirm that Qatar reserves the right to respond directly in a manner equivalent with the nature and scale of this brazen aggression, in line with international law.”

01:30 PM EDT WATCH: Qatar air defense systems intercept Iran missiles JUST IN: 🇶🇦🇮🇷 Air Defense systems intercept Iranian missiles launched at US military bases in Qatar. pic.twitter.com/7II2nETFAm — BRICS News (@BRICSinfo) June 23, 2025

01:28 PM EDT Thomas Massie trolls Donald Trump after Iran clash, deploys ‘Sassy With Massie’ tag Republican Representative Thomas Massie and President Donald Trump continued to clash online after the former criticized the White House’s approach to military action in Iran. The Kentucky representative said that Trump had “declared war” on him after he said that the strikes in Iran were unconstitutional, to which Trump responded: “GET THIS ‘BUM’ OUT OF OFFICE, ASAP!!!” Trump responded to Massie’s criticism with an extended message on Truth Social, where he wrote: “Congressman Thomas Massie of Kentucky is not MAGA, even though he likes to say he is. “Actually, MAGA doesn’t want him, doesn’t know him, and doesn’t respect him. He is a negative force who almost always Votes ‘NO,’ no matter how good something may be.” Read in full from Theo Burman on Newsweek.

01:24 PM EDT American diplomats in Qatar, Bahrain, warned to ‘duck and cover’: Report American diplomats and personnel at U.S. embassies in Qatar and Bahrain have been warned to “duck and cover” amid retaliatory missiles strikes from Iran, CNN reports. Iran has already launched a missile attack on American troops at the Al Udeid Air Base, in Qatar, as part of its state media called “a mighty and successful response” to “America’s aggression.” The retaliation comes days after the U.S. launched strikes on Iran’s major nuclear sites. The “duck and cover” warning is given when there is imminent danger, sources told CNN.

01:20 PM EDT Qatar condemns IRGC strike on U.S. base, warns of direct response Qatar has strongly condemned the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) for its missile attack on Al Udeid Air Base, calling it a “violation of Qatar’s sovereignty and airspace and the UN Charter,” according to Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed al-Ansari, per Al Jazeera. In a statement, al-Ansari said the State of Qatar reserves the right to respond directly to the “blatant aggression” in line with international law. He confirmed that Qatari air defenses successfully intercepted the missiles, preventing casualties or damage. The base, which hosts thousands of U.S. and allied troops, had been evacuated earlier as a precaution. Qatar’s government warned that continued military escalation could have catastrophic regional and global security consequences.

01:18 PM EDT Trump tells U.S. troops in Qatar he seeks peace but won’t hesitate to strike During a May visit to Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Trump told U.S. service members that his administration’s goal is to end conflicts, not start them, but warned that American power would be used decisively if provoked. “I will never hesitate to wield American power, if it’s necessary, to defend the United States of America or our partners,” Trump said, calling Qatar “one of our great partners.” He emphasized the military’s readiness, saying, “When we’re threatened, America’s military will answer our enemies without even thinking about it. We have overwhelming strength and devastating force.” The remarks came just weeks before U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites and amid rising tensions in the region.

01:16 PM EDT Iran launches missile strike on American military base Iran launched a missile attack on a U.S. military base in Qatar on Monday. Iranian state television announced that it had carried out a strike on American troops at the Al Udeid Air Base as part of “a mighty and successful response” to “America’s aggression.” The retaliation comes days after the U.S. launched strikes on Iran’s major nuclear sites. Witnesses reported seeing missiles in the skies, then explosions, Associated Press reports. It is not yet clear if the attacks caused any damage or casualties.

01:09 PM EDT Pete Hegseth ‘monitoring’ Iran from Situation Room: Report Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chair Gen. Caine are currently monitoring potential retaliation from Iran from the Situation Room, a White House official told CNN. Joint Chiefs Chair Gen. Caine and Secretary Hegseth are in the Situation Room right now monitoring potential Iranian retaliation, per a senior WH official. — Kaitlan Collins (@kaitlancollins) June 23, 2025

01:08 PM EDT White House monitoring potential Iranian threat to U.S. base in Qatar A senior White House official confirmed Monday that the administration is closely tracking a potential Iranian threat against Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the largest U.S. military installation in the Middle East. “The White House and the Department of Defense are aware of, and closely monitoring, potential threats to Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar,” the official said, amid rising tensions following U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites. The base, which hosts over 8,000 U.S. troops, has been placed on heightened alert as regional instability intensifies. The statement comes as Iran vows retaliation and U.S. embassies in the region urge citizens to shelter in place.

01:02 PM EDT Russia calls Iran partnership ‘unbreakable,’ defends right to self-defense According to state news agency TASS, Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov declared Monday that Moscow’s alliance with Tehran is “unbreakable” and defended Iran’s actions as legitimate self-defense. “Iran is acting within the framework of the implementation of the right to self-defense,” Ryabkov told reporters, calling it a “legitimate and correct” response to recent attacks. While declining to confirm whether Iran had requested military aid, Ryabkov said Russia and Iran are cooperating across multiple areas and that disclosing the details would be “irresponsible.” His remarks followed a meeting between President Vladimir Putin and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, during which Putin criticized the U.S. for using “the language of ultimatums” and urged a shift toward diplomacy.

12:55 PM EDT Explosions rock Qatar as Iranian retaliation fears escalate Explosions lit up the skies over Qatar on Monday night, with witnesses reporting what appeared to be missiles overhead, according to multiple news outlets. The incident occurred just hours after Qatar closed its airspace in response to Iranian threats of retaliation against the United States for its recent strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Qatari authorities have not officially confirmed the source or nature of the explosions. The country’s Foreign Ministry described the airspace closure as a precautionary measure, citing regional instability and coordination with international partners. Qatar, which hosts the Al Udeid Air Base, a key hub for U.S. military operations, has become a focal point in the widening conflict. The situation remains fluid as regional powers brace for further escalation.

12:49 PM EDT Qatar says airspace closure part of broader regional precautions Qatar’s Foreign Ministry said Monday that the country’s decision to close its airspace is part of a series of precautionary measures in response to recent regional developments. The statement, issued via the state-run Qatar News Agency, emphasized that authorities are “closely and continuously monitoring the situation” in coordination with international partners. Officials pledged to inform the public through official channels as the situation evolves. Qatar, which hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup and is home to the Al Jazeera news network, has recently worked to restore ties with Gulf neighbors after a years-long diplomatic rift during Donald Trump’s first term.

12:36 PM EDT E3 urges Iran to resume talks as U.S. strikes stall diplomacy Efforts to revive diplomacy between Iran and the West have faltered after a tense seven-hour meeting in Geneva between Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and the E3—Britain, France, and Germany—ended with only a vague commitment to “meet again in the future.” Just a day later, U.S. bombers struck three Iranian nuclear and military sites, further complicating negotiations. A European official confirmed that no new E3 talks are currently planned. Despite the setback, U.K. Foreign Secretary David Lammy urged Iran to return to the table and engage directly with the United States, whose own planned talks with Iran in Oman were canceled after Israel began bombing Iranian nuclear facilities on June 13. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul emphasized that Iran must be willing to negotiate with Washington for any diplomatic breakthrough. Meanwhile, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani proposed hosting a new round of U.S.-Iran talks in Rome.

12:24 PM EDT EU warns Iran against closing Strait of Hormuz amid regional tensions The European Union’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, has urged Iran not to close the Strait of Hormuz, warning that such a move would have serious global consequences. Speaking after a meeting of the EU’s 27 foreign ministers, Kallas said the strait is a vital corridor for energy supplies and its closure would have “a huge impact also for the broader trade in the world.” She added that in discussions with the United States and regional partners, there was shared concern over the spillover effect of escalating violence in the Middle East. The EU continues to advocate for diplomatic solutions to avoid further destabilization.

12:09 PM EDT France says citizens unharmed in Evin prison strike, demands release Two French nationals detained in Iran’s Evin prison were not harmed during an Israeli airstrike on the facility Monday, according to French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot. The minister condemned the strike as “unacceptable,” saying it endangered Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris, who have been imprisoned for over three years on espionage charges that France denies. Barrot reiterated France’s demand for their immediate release and called for urgent consular access. He also urged an end to all military strikes to allow space for diplomacy

11:49 AM EDT Qatar closes airspace amid Iranian threats of retaliation against U.S. Qatar has temporarily closed its airspace in response to escalating regional tensions and Iran’s threats to retaliate against the United States, AP reports.

11:47 AM EDT Iran’s exiled crown prince offers to lead democratic transition Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran’s last shah, said Monday he is ready to help lead the country through a transition to democracy, declaring the current regime “defeated” and “on the edge of collapse.” Speaking at a press conference in Paris, Pahlavi emphasized that he does not seek political power but wants to guide Iran toward “stability, freedom and justice.” Pahlavi, who left Iran shortly before the 1979 Islamic Revolution, remains a polarizing figure. While some view him as a symbol of national renewal, others recall the repression under his father’s rule or criticize his outreach to Israel. Iran’s opposition remains fragmented, with several major groups operating in exile and little clarity on their influence. Pahlavi has called for unity among dissidents and urged the international community to support a peaceful transition.

11:45 AM EDT Trump responds to Putin ally’s Iran nuclear threat Donald Trump has fired back at Dmitry Medvedev, the former Russian president and an ally of Vladimir Putin, for saying the U.S. president “has pushed the US into another war” and that countries are “ready to directly supply Iran with their own nuclear warheads.” Writing on his Truth Social platform, Trump said: “Did I hear Former President Medvedev, from Russia, casually throwing around the “N word” (Nuclear!), and saying that he and other Countries would supply Nuclear Warheads to Iran? Did he really say that or, is it just a figment of my imagination? “If he did say that, and, if confirmed, please let me know, IMMEDIATELY. The “N word” should not be treated so casually. I guess that’s why Putin’s “THE BOSS.” Read the full story by Dan Gooding and Barney Henderson on Newsweek.

11:34 AM EDT Trump reacts to Medvedev’s Iran nuclear remarks, praises U.S. submarines Trump responded on Truth Social to reports that Dmitry Medvedev, Russia’s former president and a top Putin ally, suggested some countries are ready to supply nuclear warheads to Iran. Trump questioned whether Medvedev had actually made the claim, calling it a serious escalation if true and urging confirmation “IMMEDIATELY.” Medvedev reportedly made the remarks on Telegram following U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, saying “a number of countries are ready to directly supply Iran with their own nuclear warheads.” In the same post, Trump praised the U.S. military’s precision strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities, highlighting the performance of nuclear submarines that launched 30 Tomahawk missiles. “All 30 hit their mark perfectly,” he wrote, calling the submarines “the most powerful and lethal weapons ever built.”

11:21 AM EDT Israel says electronic warfare has downed dozens of Iranian drones The Israeli military has intercepted “dozens” of Iranian drones in recent days using advanced electronic warfare systems, according to a statement released Monday. The operations were led by the 5114th Battalion of the Spectrum Warfare Center, part of the IDF’s Computer Service Directorate. “The UAVs arrive from Iranian territory into Israel, and we help intercept them on an ongoing basis,” said the unit’s commander, identified only as LTC B2. The military said the battalion uses real-time detection and jamming tools to neutralize aerial threats, adding a critical layer to Israel’s multi-tiered air defense network.

11:08 AM EDT White House says Trump’s stance unchanged, urges Iranians to decide regime’s fate White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Monday that President Donald Trump continues to believe the Iranian people should determine their own future, despite his recent Truth Social post appearing to entertain the idea of regime change. “If the Iranian regime refuses to come to a peaceful diplomatic solution… why shouldn’t the Iranian people take away the power of this incredibly violent regime?” Leavitt said on Fox News, adding that the administration’s military posture remains unchanged. In a separate interview on ABC News, Leavitt said the U.S. has a “high degree of confidence” that its strikes targeted sites where Iran’s enriched uranium was stored, amid speculation that Tehran may have moved materials ahead of the attack. The comments come as the administration faces scrutiny over its long-term goals in Iran following the weekend’s military strikes on nuclear facilities.

10:52 AM EDT Iran’s top general vows response to U.S. strike as Khamenei remains silent Commander-in-Chief of the Iranian Army Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi speaks during a rally outside the former US embassy in the capital Tehran on November 4, 2019, to mark the 40th anniversary of the Iran hostage… Commander-in-Chief of the Iranian Army Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi speaks during a rally outside the former US embassy in the capital Tehran on November 4, 2019, to mark the 40th anniversary of the Iran hostage crisis. More Atta Kenare/Getty Images More than 36 hours after the U.S. military launched strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has yet to issue a public response. However, Iran’s military leadership has broken its silence. Maj. Gen. Abdolrahim Mousavi, commander of Iran’s armed forces, said Monday that the U.S. attack “will not go unanswered,” according to the Mehr news agency. “We will take action,” he declared, signaling that Iran is preparing a response even as its top leader remains out of public view.

10:39 AM EDT White House says oil markets stable after Iran strike, reserves available White House National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett said Monday that the recent U.S. strike on Iranian nuclear sites has not significantly disrupted global oil markets. Speaking on CNBC, Hassett noted that while prices have increased, the situation remains manageable. He emphasized that other oil-producing nations hold substantial reserves, giving President Trump “a lot of room to adjust

10:26 AM EDT Iran expands missile strikes across Israel in new IRGC wave Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has broadened its missile campaign against Israel, targeting a wider range of territory from north to south, according to Fars news agency. In what it called the 21st wave of operations, the IRGC launched a coordinated strike early Monday, hitting multiple locations beyond the previously targeted cities of Tel Aviv and Haifa. The assault reportedly involved a mix of solid- and liquid-fuel missiles as well as drones, signaling a tactical shift in Iran’s military approach. The IRGC said the strikes were part of Operation True Promise-3, which has recently intensified amid escalating regional conflict.

10:13 AM EDT Iran says Putin meeting was positive, Russia calls for regional calm Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin as “good,” according to Russia’s RIA news agency, following high-level talks in Moscow on Monday. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the two leaders discussed the escalating conflict in the Middle East, with a shared focus on finding a peaceful resolution. During the meeting, Putin condemned the recent military strikes on Iran as “unprovoked aggression” and said they had “no basis and no justification.” He reaffirmed that Russia is working to assist the Iranian people, though no specific support measures were announced.

09:59 AM EDT Israel says Iran campaign nearing completion, eyes negotiations Israel could achieve the majority of its military objectives in Iran “within days,” according to a source familiar with the operation. The source said Israel is focused on completing its strike targets before shifting toward diplomatic efforts. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich echoed that assessment, telling Army Radio that Israel is “very close to completing” its three core goals: dismantling Iran’s nuclear program, ballistic missile capabilities, and regional proxy networks. In a televised address Sunday night, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated that Israel would not allow the conflict to become a prolonged “war of attrition,” but also emphasized that the campaign would not end until all objectives are met.

09:50 AM EDT Trump calls Rep. Thomas Massie a ‘bum’ after longwinded post Trump launched a blistering attack on Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) in a Truth Social post yesterday, accusing the congressman of being a “grandstander” and “not MAGA” after Massie criticized the recent U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites. This morning, however, Trump followed up the post with another by saying, “GET THIS ‘BUM’ OUT OF OFFICE, ASAP!!!” Trump defended the strikes as a “spectacular military success” and accused Massie of siding with Iran by opposing the operation. “He is a negative force who almost always votes ‘NO,’ no matter how good something may be,” Trump wrote, adding that Massie is “weak, ineffective,” and “disrespectful to our great military.”

09:45 AM EDT Republican support flips for US involvement in Israel-Iran conflict Republicans have shifted their position on the U.S.’s involvement in the Iran-Israel conflict following President Donald Trump’s decision to conduct strikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities. According to a YouGov poll conducted over the weekend, 68 percent of Republicans approved of the U.S. bombing nuclear sites in Iran, with 13 percent opposed and 18 percent undecided. In a survey days earlier, however, 53 percent said the U.S. should not get involved in the conflict, with 23 percent in support and 24 percent unsure of their position. The U.S.’s dramatic entry into the conflict between Israel and Iran has marked a major shift in Trump’s foreign policy. The strikes not only raise the possibility of retaliation by Iran, which has dubbed them an act of “blatant aggression,” but have also fueled calls for expanded military action and regime change. However, the strikes and possibility of further American involvement in the conflict have caused a division in Trump’s party, with a handful of Republican lawmakers criticizing the president’s unilateral action as escalating tensions and laying the groundwork for another protracted military engagement in the Middle East. Read the full story by Hugh Cameron on Newsweek.

09:32 AM EDT NATO chief urges Iran to meet nuclear obligations under NPT NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte addresses a press conference a day prior to a meeting of The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) in The Hague, on June 23, 2025. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte addresses a press conference a day prior to a meeting of The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) in The Hague, on June 23, 2025. John Thys/Getty Images Speaking ahead of the upcoming NATO summit, Secretary General Mark Rutte reaffirmed the alliance’s unified stance on Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Addressing reporters, Rutte said that NATO allies have long agreed that Iran must not develop a nuclear weapon, emphasizing the importance of upholding international agreements. “Allies have repeatedly urged Iran to meet its obligations under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT),” Rutte said, referencing the global pact aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons.

09:16 AM EDT Netanyahu says Israel close to goals in Iran, rules out drawn-out war Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday that Israel is “very, very close” to achieving its objectives in the ongoing conflict with Iran, following U.S. strikes on three Iranian nuclear sites. In a televised address, Netanyahu said the campaign, launched on June 13, aims to eliminate Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile threats. “We are advancing, step by step, to achieve these goals,” he said, while declining to offer a timeline for ending the offensive. Netanyahu emphasized that Israel would not be drawn into a prolonged “war of attrition,” but also would not halt operations prematurely. The conflict has disrupted daily life in Israel, with missile attacks from Iran forcing school closures and grounding flights. Despite the strain, Netanyahu’s approach has drawn support across the political spectrum, including from opposition leader Yair Lapid. Netanyahu also suggested that weakening Iran could help undermine Hamas in Gaza, hinting at potential progress in hostage negotiations and a broader resolution to the 20-month war there.

09:03 AM EDT Iran accelerates succession planning as Khamenei retreats from public view Iran’s clerical leadership has intensified efforts to identify a successor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, amid fears of further instability following Israeli and U.S. strikes on Iranian targets, Reuters reports. A three-member committee, appointed by Khamenei two years ago, has reportedly stepped up its work recently as the 86-year-old leader remains in hiding under heavy guard. Two frontrunners have emerged: Mojtaba Khamenei, the Supreme Leader’s son and a hardline continuity candidate, and Hassan Khomeini, the reformist-leaning grandson of the Islamic Republic’s founder. While Mojtaba is ideologically aligned with his father, Khomeini is viewed as a more moderate figure who could appeal to a discontented public and ease international tensions. Sources close to the succession talks say Khamenei is being briefed regularly but has not publicly endorsed a successor. The urgency of the process has grown following threats to Khamenei’s life and the deaths of several senior Revolutionary Guards commanders in recent Israeli strikes. The final decision lies with the Assembly of Experts, a clerical body constitutionally tasked with selecting the next Supreme Leader. However, insiders caution that the ongoing conflict could complicate any transition, especially if the Revolutionary Guards seek to assert greater control over the process

08:49 AM EDT White House: Iranians should decide regime’s fate if diplomacy fails Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Monday that if Iran’s leadership continues to reject diplomatic solutions, it is up to the Iranian people to determine the future of their government. “If the Iranian regime refuses to come to a diplomatic solution, why shouldn’t the Iranian people take away the power of this incredibly violent regime?” the spokesperson said, signaling growing frustration with Tehran’s stance amid escalating conflict. Despite the sharp rhetoric, the press secretary emphasized that the U.S. military posture remains unchanged, suggesting that Washington is not currently planning further strikes or troop deployments. .@PressSec on regime change in Iran:”If the Iranian regime refuses to come to a diplomatic solution, why shouldn’t the Iranian people take away the power of this incredibly violent regime?”

Says for now, US military posture hasn’t changed — Alayna Treene (@alaynatreene) June 23, 2025

08:46 AM EDT Israeli strikes knock out power in northern Tehran Israeli airstrikes on Tehran have damaged major power lines in the city’s northern districts, causing widespread outages, according to Iran’s Mehr news agency. The national electric company, Tavanir, confirmed that the disruption affected parts of Districts 2 and 3, home to over 1 million residents. The strikes reportedly hit infrastructure near key government and military sites, though the full extent of the damage remains unclear. Local authorities have begun emergency repairs, and some power has since been restored

08:32 AM EDT Iran’s exiled crown prince urges West to back people’s call for change At a press conference in Paris on Monday, Reza Pahlavi, the exiled crown prince of Iran, fielded pre-selected questions about the escalating conflict and the future of Iran’s leadership. When asked whether regime change should be a formal objective of the United States or Israel, Pahlavi responded that it is “not any foreign government’s job” to define such a goal. Instead, he urged the international community to “recognize that this is the ask of the Iranian people.” “Where do Western democracies stand?” he asked. “Are they going to continue throwing the regime a lifeline, or recognize that this is a golden opportunity?” Pahlavi has positioned himself as a transitional figure for a post-Islamic Republic Iran, calling for a democratic future and greater international support for Iranian dissidents.

08:14 AM EDT China evacuates over 3,000 citizens from Iran amid conflict China has successfully evacuated more than 3,000 of its citizens from Iran, the country’s foreign ministry confirmed Monday, as Israeli airstrikes continue to target Iranian territory. An additional 500 Chinese nationals have also departed from Israel, which is facing retaliatory missile attacks from Iran. According to the ministry, all Chinese citizens who requested evacuation left safely, with operations coordinated through embassies and consulates in both countries. The evacuations come amid growing regional instability and widespread airspace closures across the Middle East.

07:54 AM EDT UN nuclear chief warns of catastrophic risk without diplomacy At an emergency meeting in Vienna on Monday, Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), warned that the escalating conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States could lead to “violence and destruction at unimaginable levels” if diplomacy fails. Grossi urged all parties to return to negotiations and allow IAEA inspectors access to Iranian nuclear sites, including Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan, which were recently struck by U.S. forces. He emphasized the need to verify Iran’s 400 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60%, warning that continued hostilities could undermine the global nonproliferation regime. While Iran has claimed no radiation leaks occurred, Grossi said the IAEA has not yet been able to fully assess the damage. He stressed that diplomacy remains the only viable path to prevent further escalation and ensure nuclear safety.

07:40 AM EDT Putin reaffirms support for Iran amid US, Israeli strikes Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Moscow on Monday, condemning recent U.S. airstrikes on Iran as “unprovoked aggression” and pledging continued Russian support. The meeting came as Israeli forces intensified their campaign against Tehran. Putin, joined by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and senior aide Yury Ushakov, told Araghchi that Russia values its “long-standing, reliable relationship” with Iran and is actively working to assist the Iranian people. He also said he had spoken with leaders from the U.S., Israel, UAE, and Iran, though the Kremlin later clarified no call with President Trump was scheduled after the strikes. Araghchi thanked Putin for standing by Iran and described Russia as being “on the right side of history.” He praised Moscow’s role in Iran’s nuclear development and diplomacy, highlighting Russia’s involvement in the Bushehr nuclear power plant, where around 200 Russian experts are currently stationed. The meeting underscored the deepening Iran-Russia alliance, which has grown stronger since Iran began supplying Russia with drones and missiles during the war in Ukraine.

07:27 AM EDT Putin condemns U.S. strikes, reaffirms support for Iran In this image released by the Roscongress Foundation, Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks at a plenary session of the Economic Forum in St. Petersburg, Russia, Friday, June 20, 2025. In this image released by the Roscongress Foundation, Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks at a plenary session of the Economic Forum in St. Petersburg, Russia, Friday, June 20, 2025. Vyacheslav Viktorov/ Roscongress Foundation vía AP Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in the Kremlin on Monday, denouncing recent U.S. airstrikes on Iran as “absolutely unprovoked aggression.” He emphasized Russia’s commitment to supporting the Iranian people and highlighted the countries’ long-standing partnership. “We are making efforts to provide assistance to the Iranian people,” Putin said, reaffirming Moscow’s ties with Tehran amid rising regional tensions. Araghchi thanked Russia for its vocal condemnation of the U.S. and Israeli actions, calling the strikes “completely illegitimate” and a violation of international norms. He also praised Russia’s role in Iran’s peaceful nuclear development, noting its involvement in building the Bushehr nuclear power plant.

07:14 AM EDT US Embassy in Qatar urges Americans to shelter in place The U.S. Embassy in Qatar has reportedly issued a shelter-in-place advisory for American citizens, citing unspecified security concerns. U.S. Embassy in Qatar issues message to U.S. citizens recommending they shelter in place until further notice. @Reuters — Tala Ramadan (@TalaRamadan) June 23, 2025

07:01 AM EDT Iran says Evin Prison under control after Israeli strike Iran’s judiciary announced Friday that the situation at Evin Prison in Tehran is “under control” following an Israeli airstrike that damaged parts of the facility. The statement, issued through the Mizan news agency, said authorities had taken “all necessary measures” to manage the prison complex, though it did not specify the extent of the damage. Video footage circulating online showed the prison’s main gate blasted open, raising concerns about the safety of detainees. The strike was part of a broader Israeli offensive targeting government and military sites in Tehran, including facilities linked to the Revolutionary Guards.

06:43 AM EDT Map shows US military presence in Middle East as Iran makes threats The map below from Newsweek’s John Feng shows bases in the Middle East with an American presence—and so potential targets for Iranian retaliation. Iran has said the U.S. strikes on its nuclear facilities broaden the scope of what it sees as legitimate targets, a clear threat to Americans in the region. The U.S. has warned Iran not to retaliate against its troops in the Middle East, or any other American assets or personnel, saying its strikes were targeted and limited. It is urging Iran to pursue diplomacy from here.

US President Donald Trump claimed that Israel and Iran have agreed to a “complete and total ceasefire” that is meant to take effect in 24 hours, a dramatic change in direction just hours after the Middle East crisis appeared to widen.

Earlier on Monday, Iran struck back against the United States by firing missiles at an American military base in Qatar, a development that built on weeks of rising tensions between arch-rivals Iran and Israel – and now, Israel’s key ally, the United States.

Trump had declared “an Official END to THE 12 DAY WAR” in a social media post, and that the ceasefire would begin with Iran first, followed by Israel 12 hours later. There was no immediate comment from Israel. Iran’s foreign minister said there would be no cessation of hostilities unless Israel stopped its attacks.

Since June 13, Israel and Iran have exchanged waves of devastating and deadly strikes. Israel launched its aerial campaign asserting that Tehran was on the verge of developing a nuclear weapon. Iran, however, has vehemently denied these claims, maintaining that its nuclear programme is solely for peaceful purposes.

Follow live updates here as the world reacts to this critical and rapidly unfolding development.