Iran suspends attacks, denies signing any ceasefire agreement with Israel

Iran’s Foreign Ministry has categorically denied entering into any formal ceasefire agreement with Israel, clarifying that the recent pause in retaliatory attacks was a response to what it termed a “cessation of aggression” by the Israeli side, rather than the result of any negotiated settlement.

Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh emphasized that no written or formal agreement had been signed between Tehran and Jerusalem, Caliber.Az reports, citing Iranian media.

“We did not have any written agreement with the Zionist regime containing any clauses,” Khatibzadeh stated in an official briefing.

He further explained that Iran’s decision to suspend its retaliatory strikes was contingent on the de-escalation initiated by Israel. “What happened was a cessation of aggression by the Zionists, and in parallel, Iran, while remaining ready, will not carry out any attacks,” Khatibzadeh added, underscoring Tehran’s stance of maintaining preparedness amid ongoing tensions.

The ceasefire between Israel and Iran, announced on June 24, concluded a 12-day conflict that began on June 13, when Israel launched a series of preemptive strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities, including sites in Isfahan, Natanz, and Fordow. 

US President Trump initiated the ceasefire process by engaging directly with Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, informing him that Israel had agreed to a ceasefire proposal.

Qatar emerged as a pivotal mediator due to its established diplomatic ties with both Iran and the United States, as well as its history of facilitating regional negotiations, such as those between Israel and Hamas.

Trump requested Qatar’s assistance in persuading Iran to reciprocate. Qatar’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, then engaged in direct discussions with Iranian officials, securing Tehran’s commitment to the ceasefire terms.

By Vafa Guliyeva