Iran Declares Victory as 12-Day War with Israel Ends in Ceasefire

Tehran, Iran – Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has declared that Israel was “crushed” in the just-concluded 12-day conflict between the two longtime adversaries. The war, which escalated rapidly after Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, ended this week following a U.S.-brokered ceasefire.

In a televised speech on Wednesday, Khamenei claimed that Iran emerged victorious, stating that “the Zionist regime was almost knocked down and crushed under Iran’s blows.”

“They were supported by America, but even that could not save them,” Khamenei added.

How the Conflict Bega

The confrontation began on June 13, 2025, after Israeli fighter jets launched surprise attacks on key Iranian nuclear and military facilities in Isfahan, Natanz, and Fordow. Tehran retaliated almost immediately with a large-scale barrage of ballistic missiles and drones aimed at major Israeli cities and military installations.

This marked one of the most direct and intense exchanges between the two countries in decades, with international observers warning of a potential regional war.

Ceasefire Agreement

After 12 days of heavy fighting, a phased ceasefire was announced between June 24 and 26, facilitated by former U.S. President Donald Trump with support from regional intermediaries.

Iran halted strikes first, followed by Israel 12 hours later.

A full ceasefire came into effect 24 hours afterward, though reports indicated scattered missile fire continued during the transition.

Casualties and Damage

The human cost of the conflict has been substantial:

Over 650 Iranians were confirmed dead, including 263 civilians, with more than 2,000 injured.

At least 24 Israelis lost their lives, and multiple cities, including Tel Aviv and Haifa, reported damage to infrastructure and public buildings.

Iran also claimed responsibility for a strike on the U.S. Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, accusing Washington of direct involvement in Israel’s defense.

Clashing Claims of Victory

While Iran’s leadership celebrates what it calls a “historic victory,” both Israel and the United States contend that Iran’s nuclear program has been significantly weakened.

U.S. officials confirmed airstrikes on three major Iranian nuclear facilities, suggesting their operations have been “crippled.” However, Iranian state media reported that sensitive nuclear assets had been relocated prior to the bombings, minimizing losses.

Khamenei and other Iranian officials maintain that the conflict exposed Israel’s vulnerability and strengthened Iran’s strategic position.

What’s Next? Though calm has returned to most affected areas, tensions remain dangerously high. Middle East analysts caution that the conflict could reignite at any time, especially given the fragile nature of the ceasefire and unresolved political grievances.

For now, the world watches closely as both sides regroup, and the region enters a precarious post-conflict phase.