A fragile ceasefire between Israel and Iran has entered its third day, with U.S. President Donald Trump asserting that American and Iranian officials are set to hold talks next week. The ceasefire follows a 12-day war that saw intense military exchanges between the two nations, with Trump taking credit for both initiating U.S. strikes and brokering peace.
According to the CIA, the U.S. airstrikes inflicted severe damage on Iran’s nuclear facilities, which may take years to rebuild. CIA Director Ratcliffe’s assessment contradicts some classified reports, which questioned the full extent of the damage.
We may sign an agreement; I don’t know. The way I look at it, they fought; the war is done,” said President Trump during the NATO summit.
Trump expressed skepticism about restarting negotiations with Iran but confirmed next week’s proposed dialogue, sparking cautious optimism for a long-term resolution. Meanwhile, he slammed media reports that downplayed the damage from U.S. strikes.
Operation Sindhu: India Evacuates Citizens from Iran
Amidst the turmoil, India has intensified evacuation efforts under **#OperationSindhu**, bringing back 272 Indian and three Nepalese nationals from Mashhad, Iran. This follows previous evacuations, including 296 Indians and four Nepalese on Wednesday and over 1,100 citizens earlier this week.
“3426 Indian nationals have been brought home from Iran as part of #OperationSindhu,” posted MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on X.
China Hosts Iranian, Russian Defence Ministers Amid Ceasefire
In a strategic move, **China hosted Iran and Russia’s defence chiefs** in Qingdao, aiming to showcase solidarity among Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) members. The timing of the meeting, coinciding with the Israel-Iran ceasefire and a NATO summit in Europe, highlights China’s broader geopolitical ambitions.
France Confirms Interception of Iranian Drones Targeting Israel
French Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu confirmed that France **intercepted fewer than 10 drones** launched by Iran against Israel during the conflict, using Rafale fighter jets and ground systems. He added that Iran fired around **400 ballistic missiles and 1,000 drones** during the 12-day war.
EU, U.S. Lawmakers React; Trump to Brief Congress
EU leaders are set to meet in Brussels to discuss the Middle East situation. The U.S. Senate, meanwhile, awaits a **classified briefing on the Iran strikes**, with bipartisan concerns over the lack of congressional consultation before the attacks.
A resolution is also expected that would mandate congressional approval for any future military actions against Iran.
Oil Prices Dip Amid Ceasefire Hopes
Oil prices, which had surged due to the conflict, **fell up to 9% on Monday**, with Brent crude settling at \$67.44/barrel. Analysts cite de-escalation in the Middle East and stable global supply expectations as key factors.
Explained: Why Israel-Iran Conflict Matters for India and the World
India’s neutral stance and dual evacuation from both Israel and Iran show its balancing act amid rising global tensions. The U.S.-Israel alliance, especially under Trump, continues to dominate the region’s power dynamics — with Israel initiating strikes just days before scheduled U.S.-Iran talks, effectively derailing diplomatic momentum.
Despite internal dissent and war fatigue, Trump authorised bombings on **Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan**, drawing parallels with past U.S. interventions in the region. Analysts argue that the deep-rooted U.S.-Israel partnership, anchored since 1967, remains a decisive factor in Washington’s Middle East policy.