Trump Hails Ceasefire with Iran as 'Total and Complete Victory'
In a dramatic shift, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire agreement with Iran, just one day after threatening to wipe out the nation's "whole civilization." Trump hailed the deal as a "total and complete victory" following 38 days of military action known as Operation Epic Fury. However, Tehran offered a competing narrative, with the Islamic Republic, led by Mojtaba Khamenei, also claiming victory. Iranian officials pointed to Washington's acceptance of their 10-point proposal as evidence of both battlefield and diplomatic success.
'Big Day for World Peace' and Economic Gains
Trump struck an upbeat tone after reaching the ceasefire understanding with Iran, calling it a "big day" and hinting at significant economic benefits. He positioned himself at the center of efforts to stabilize the crucial Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route for oil. In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote: "A big day for World Peace! Iran wants it to happen, they've had enough! Likewise, so has everyone else! The United States of America will be helping with the traffic buildup in the Strait of Hormuz. There will be lots of positive action! Big money will be made. Iran can start the reconstruction process. We'll be loading up with supplies of all kinds, and just 'hangin' around' in order to make sure that everything goes well. I feel confident that it will. Just like we are experiencing in the US, this could be the Golden Age of the Middle East!!!"
Confident Tone Amid Lingering Questions
As the truce took shape, Trump maintained a confident stance. Speaking to the AFP news agency, he asserted, "Total and complete victory. 100 percent. No question about it," even as uncertainties persist regarding the durability of the agreement. The ceasefire was agreed upon barely an hour before Trump's deadline to escalate strikes expired. He described the framework as substantial, adding, "We have a 15 point transaction, of which most of those things have been agreed on. We'll see what happens. We'll see if it gets there."
Uranium Concerns and Focus on Hormuz
On Washington's long-standing concerns over Iran's nuclear program, Trump insisted there would be no loose ends. "That will be perfectly taken care of, or I wouldn't have settled," he said, without providing details on how Tehran's enriched uranium would be managed. Uncertainty also surrounds the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, which is central to the deal and a vital artery for global oil trade.
Diplomatic Roles of China and Pakistan
Trump suggested that China may have played a role in nudging Iran toward talks. When asked about Beijing's involvement, he responded, "I hear yes." The ceasefire follows weeks of intense strikes involving the United States and Israel, with mediation efforts led by Pakistan. This diplomatic intervention highlights the complex international dynamics at play.
Israel's Support with Caveats
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel supports the U.S.-led ceasefire, but clarified that it does not apply to Israel's ongoing conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon. In contrast, Pakistan has claimed the agreement extends "everywhere," including Lebanon, underscoring lingering ambiguity over the truce's scope and stability. These conflicting interpretations raise questions about the long-term effectiveness of the ceasefire in the region.
