A tenuous ceasefire between Iran and Israel showed signs of stabilization Tuesday despite early setbacks, as U.S. President Donald Trump criticized both nations for prolonged hostilities that he claimed demonstrated a lack of strategic clarity. The development comes amid conflicting assessments about the effectiveness of recent strikes targeting Iran's nuclear facilities.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that military actions had 'brought Iran's nuclear program to ruin,' but a U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency report obtained by Reuters suggests otherwise. The assessment indicates weekend strikes only temporarily disrupted operations at two facilities, sealing entrances without collapsing underground structures. Some centrifuges reportedly remained operational, according to unnamed sources cited by the Washington Post.
The White House has dismissed the intelligence findings as 'flat out wrong,' creating rare public tension between U.S. leadership and its defense analysts. This discrepancy raises questions about the long-term implications for regional stability and nonproliferation efforts.
Global markets showed muted reaction to the developments, though energy analysts warn sustained tensions could impact oil prices. The situation remains fluid, with diplomatic sources indicating behind-the-scenes negotiations continue through third-party channels.
