Ceasefire Confusion: Iran and Israel Both Claim Victory as Trump and Qatar Defend Roles

Iran’s Perspective: “Pride in Unity”

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian addressed the nation Tuesday night, hailing what he described as a “victory” over the Israeli military and its U.S. allies following 12 days of hostilities. In a televised message, Pezeshkian credited the Iranian people’s “unity and cohesion” for forcing the Zionist regime into accepting a ceasefire.

He emphasized that Iranian defense capabilities would remain committed to protecting regional allies and that “coexistence” with neighboring countries remains a strategic priority. Pezeshkian also warned of “enemy plots” to divide Muslim nations and called for “wisdom and vigilance” in preserving regional unity.

According to Mehr News Agency, Pezeshkian said the Iranian armed forces inflicted greater damage on the enemy than they suffered themselves.

Israel’s Standpoint: “Historic Victory”

In contrast, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed Israel had delivered a “historic victory” by destroying key elements of Iran’s nuclear and missile programs in coordination with the United States.

Netanyahu praised U.S. President Donald Trump for his “unprecedented” support, citing the joint strikes that targeted Iran’s Fordo enrichment facility and ballistic missile sites. “Israel has never had a friend like President Trump in the White House,” Netanyahu said, as reported by The Times of Israel.

Trump’s Role: Peacemaker or Provoker?

Despite earlier threats to skip the NATO summit, President Trump claimed credit for negotiating the ceasefire and pressuring both sides to stand down. In public remarks, however, he sharply criticized Israel’s “ill-timed” last-minute missile strikes that occurred just before the truce took effect.

Analysts say Trump’s dual messaging reflects a balancing act—asserting U.S. global leadership while managing tensions with close allies like Israel. He has faced mixed reactions from Republican leaders and foreign policy experts over the incident.

Qatar’s Quiet Diplomacy

Qatar played a significant, if understated, role in mediating between Iran and Israel, facilitating backchannel communications that led to the ceasefire agreement. According to senior diplomatic sources, Qatar hosted at least three rounds of indirect talks in Doha involving U.S. and European observers.

While Qatar has not officially commented on its role, multiple media outlets have cited it as a trusted intermediary trusted by both Tehran and Washington.

Western Reactions: Relieved, But Cautious

European powers including Germany, France, and the UK welcomed the ceasefire but warned that the situation remains “extremely fragile.” German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock stated that “sustainable peace cannot be achieved through unilateral strikes.”

EU High Representative Josep Borrell emphasized the need for “regional frameworks for conflict resolution,” and urged NATO and the United Nations to remain actively engaged in maintaining stability in the Middle East.