Israeli army: Iran ceasefire holds, Lebanon fighting continues

The Israeli military confirmed Wednesday that it is adhering to a ceasefire agreement with Iran, following political directives, while maintaining heightened defensive readiness to respond to any violation. A spokesperson stated that the army “is observing the ceasefire in the campaign against Iran” and remains prepared to act if Tehran breaches the terms. The announcement came after US President Donald Trump declared a two-week pause in hostilities overnight Tuesday, less than two hours before his ultimatum for Iran to accept a deal and reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz or face “the destruction of an entire civilization.”

Ceasefire Compliance and Regional Context

According to The Times of Israel, the Israeli Air Force has not carried out any strikes on Iranian targets since approximately 3 a.m. local time, signaling initial compliance with the truce. However, the military emphasized that its ground and air operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon remain fully active. “The IDF continues combat and ground operations against Hezbollah,” the statement read, indicating that while the Iranian front has been paused, the northern front remains heated. The ceasefire does not extend to Lebanon, where Israel has been engaged in cross-border fighting with the Iranian-backed militant group.

Escalation and Aftermath

The truce follows more than five weeks of intense warfare that began with joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28. The offensive has killed over 1,400 people, including then-Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and numerous senior commanders. In retaliation, Iran launched waves of drones and missiles targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf states hosting US military assets, while also choking maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. The ceasefire offers a fragile pause, but with Lebanon operations ongoing and Trump’s ultimatum expired, the region remains on edge.