DUBAI, June 25: Following 12 days of intense conflict between Iran and Israel, a fragile ceasefire continues to hold, sparking cautious optimism for a longer-term peace despite deep underlying tensions—particularly around Iran’s nuclear program. The ceasefire, brokered with U.S. assistance, came after heavy airstrikes by Israel and the U.S. that targeted key Iranian nuclear sites. President Donald Trump and his envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, claim the strikes “completely obliterated” Iran’s enrichment capabilities. However, there is debate about the extent of the damage.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei acknowledged that the American strikes, including bunker-buster bombs from B-2 bombers, caused significant damage to nuclear installations. Yet, Iran also claims to have relocated much of its highly enriched uranium prior to the attack. Baghaei reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to maintaining a peaceful nuclear energy program and insisted the country would not abandon its right to do so.
While Iran’s parliament is fast-tracking a bill to suspend cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Baghaei hinted that this suspension may not be permanent. IAEA chief Rafael Grossi stressed the need for inspectors to return to assess damage and re-engage with Iranian authorities. He warned that despite physical destruction, Iran’s technical expertise and infrastructure remain intact, making it essential to maintain dialogue to prevent further escalation.
U.S. and Israeli officials insist the military strikes have set back Iran’s nuclear program by years. However, reports from U.S. intelligence suggest the delay may be only a few months. Israeli officials maintain that the ceasefire is based on a “quiet for quiet” understanding with no broader agreement on nuclear issues.
Despite the mistrust, there are ongoing efforts toward broader diplomacy. Witkoff stated that Trump seeks a comprehensive peace agreement beyond the ceasefire and that talks are already underway, both directly and through intermediaries. China, a close ally of Iran and a major buyer of its oil, also expressed hope for a lasting ceasefire and offered to support peace and stability in the region. Beijing has criticized Israel for instigating the conflict and pledged to contribute positively to regional diplomacy.
Amid the relative calm, serious human rights concerns persist. Iran has executed six people accused of spying for Israel since June 16, with the latest three hanged on Wednesday in Urmia Prison. The executions have drawn concern from international human rights organizations, including Amnesty International.
The human toll of the conflict is significant. Iran reported 606 deaths and over 5,300 injuries, while Israel counted 28 dead and more than 1,000 wounded. Independent estimates from the Human Rights Activists group suggest the Iranian death toll could exceed 1,000, including hundreds of civilians and security personnel. Israeli airstrikes targeted key Iranian military and government sites, intensifying the destruction.
As the guns fall silent, Iranians are slowly returning to everyday life. State media reports show heavy traffic and movement in rural areas around Tehran, indicating an attempt by citizens to resume normalcy. Still, the path to lasting peace remains uncertain, with both sides wary and unresolved issues—particularly over Iran’s nuclear ambitions—looming large. (AP)
