Israeli media: Trump may announce Iran ceasefire by Saturday

Israeli officials believe US President Donald Trump may announce a ceasefire with Iran as early as Saturday, according to Israeli media reports Wednesday, as diplomatic signals emerge amid the ongoing conflict. The reports suggest Washington could temporarily pause hostilities to open the door for negotiations.

Potential halt looms

The public broadcaster KAN, citing an informed Israeli source, said Tel Aviv is concerned that Washington might halt fighting—potentially even unilaterally—if the Iranians present a "substantial concession." The source noted that Israel fears a pause in hostilities could come at a critical stage of the war. Israeli Channel 12 reported that political and security leaders are working to "maximize gains" from the conflict before any potential halt, with priorities set during a meeting attended by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Military acceleration

The daily Yedioth Ahronoth said Israel is accelerating military operations against Iran and "stepping on the gas" in anticipation of a possible ceasefire push in the coming days. Despite the diplomatic signals, KAN reported that coordination between Israel and the US remains "productive," with the head of US Central Command expected to visit Israel soon for consultations. Sources cited by Channel 12 said the chances of reaching a detailed agreement between Washington and Tehran remain low, though a broader "framework agreement" remains under consideration.

Conflict context

The US and Israel have maintained airstrikes on Iran since Feb. 28, killing more than 1,340 people including former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran has retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq and Gulf countries hosting US military assets, causing casualties and infrastructure damage while disrupting global markets and aviation. A potential ceasefire announcement would mark the first major diplomatic breakthrough in the five-week conflict.