U.S. President Donald Trump has urged Israel and Iran to immediately stop exchanging military strikes as fresh hostilities threatened ongoing efforts to secure a broader peace agreement in the Middle East.
Trump made the appeal through posts on his Truth Social platform after both countries traded attacks in their most serious confrontation since a ceasefire was reached earlier this year.
“Israel and Iran must immediately stop shooting,” Trump wrote, while expressing optimism that diplomacy could still prevail despite the renewed violence.
The latest escalation began after Israeli strikes targeted locations inside Iran, prompting Tehran to respond with missile attacks against Israeli territory.
The exchange of attacks raised fears that months of diplomatic progress could unravel and trigger a wider regional conflict involving multiple actors across the Middle East.
Trump later stated that both Israel and Iran appeared willing to pursue an immediate ceasefire, adding that final negotiations toward a broader peace arrangement were continuing.
He cautioned, however, that the process could still be derailed by miscalculations or actions that undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Reports indicate that Trump personally communicated with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in an attempt to discourage further military action and preserve momentum toward a negotiated settlement.
Despite those efforts, Israel proceeded with strikes against Iranian targets, highlighting the challenges facing international attempts to de-escalate the crisis.
Iranian authorities meanwhile signaled a willingness to pause offensive operations but warned that additional attacks would be launched if Israeli actions continued.
The renewed confrontation has attracted global attention because of its potential impact on regional stability, energy markets, and international security.
Analysts note that any prolonged conflict between the two countries could disrupt trade routes, affect oil supplies, and increase geopolitical uncertainty across the region.
Although both sides have indicated openness to reducing hostilities, uncertainty remains over whether a lasting ceasefire can be achieved and maintained.
Diplomatic observers say the coming days will be critical in determining whether negotiations succeed or whether the conflict enters another dangerous phase.
For now, international attention remains focused on efforts to prevent further escalation and preserve the fragile path toward peace.