ALBAWABA- Explosions struck the Iranian capital, Tehran and the nearby city of Karaj on Wednesday, just hours after a 15-day truce between Iran and the United States was announced, raising concerns over the durability of the agreement.
Iranian air defense systems were activated for more than 20 minutes as multiple impacts were reported in both locations, according to state media. The incident marks the first engagement of Tehran’s air defences since the ceasefire took effect earlier in the day.
The truce, brokered by Pakistan, requires Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping in exchange for a halt in US strikes. Direct negotiations are scheduled to begin in Islamabad on Friday.
Iranian officials condemned the strikes as a “flagrant violation” of the ceasefire and warned of a response if attacks continue. Tehran linked the incident to ongoing Israeli operations, accusing Israel of attempting to derail the diplomatic process.
US President Donald Trump welcomed the truce, describing Iran’s 10-point proposal as “reasonable” and confirming it would form the basis for upcoming talks. He also suggested potential future cooperation on managing transit through the Strait of Hormuz, including possible revenue mechanisms.
Vice President JD Vance, speaking from Budapest, characterized the agreement as a “fragile truce,” citing internal divisions within Iran and emphasizing the need for progress in negotiations.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth described the American campaign as a “decisive victory” but indicated that US forces would remain deployed in the region to monitor compliance.
Israeli officials have not claimed responsibility for the strikes. However, Israel has continued military operations against Iranian allies in Lebanon despite the US-Iran agreement. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly stated that the ceasefire does not restrict Israel’s actions, fueling concerns that continued escalation could undermine the truce and complicate the planned negotiations.
