Missile alert sirens sounded in several Middle Eastern countries early Wednesday, despite Iran and the United States saying they had reached a two-week ceasefire in the war. Despite diplomatic efforts, fighting continued on multiple fronts. In Abu Dhabi, a gas processing facility was set on fire after incoming Iranian strikes, officials said. It was not immediately clear which targets were hit in Israel, which has faced frequent missile and drone attacks throughout the conflict.Alerts were also reported in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Kuwait, highlighting the confusion and instability surrounding the ceasefire.Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard has directed most of the war, with field commanders reportedly deciding on attacks independently, raising doubts over whether all forces are complying with the ceasefire.Observers say that in many conflicts in the Middle East, attacks are often launched at the last minute before a ceasefire has fully taken effect, allowing the sides to claim an advantage.The ceasefire, involving Iran, the United States and Israel, was aimed at preventing a war that has destabilized the region and disrupted global energy markets. However, questions quickly emerged over its terms and implementation.Iran has insisted it will maintain control over the Strait of Hormuz and continue uranium enrichment, which are major sticking points for Washington. US President Donald Trump initially described Iran’s proposal as ‘viable’, later calling it a ‘fraud’, while saying that ending Iran’s nuclear program is a key objective.Israel has supported the ceasefire but clarified that it does not apply to the ongoing conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon. Pakistan, which has acted as mediator, said the ceasefire took effect immediately and further talks could begin soon in Islamabad – a claim contradicted by continued attacks.In Tehran, pro-government protesters took to the streets after the announcement, chanting slogans against the United States and Israel and rejecting any agreement.Under the proposed terms, Iran would allow passage through the Strait of Hormuz under military surveillance and, along with Oman, would potentially charge transit fees on shipping. Tehran has also demanded the withdrawal of US forces from the region, relief from sanctions and access to frozen assets.Even as the United States halted offensive operations, both Iran and Israel appeared to continue military actions. Recent attacks have targeted infrastructure, including oil facilities and transportation networks, worsening economic and geopolitical tensions.
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What is the most important issue affecting the ceasefire agreement?
With casualties rising and missile alerts still in effect in Iran, Israel, Lebanon and the wider region, the ceasefire remains fragile and its future uncertain.