Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz warned Thursday that the Israel Defense Force stands ready to strike Iran for the third time—"and with greater force than before"—as President Trump declared the U.S.-Iran ceasefire officially over following Tehran's attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.

The declaration marks a dangerous escalation in the ongoing conflict between Western powers and the Islamic Republic, with both Washington and Jerusalem signaling their readiness for renewed military action.

Trump Declares Ceasefire Over

Speaking at the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey on July 8, Trump announced that the ceasefire—which had held since June 2025 following Israel's "Twelve-Day War" against Iranian nuclear and military facilities—was no longer in effect.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran has asked us to continue 'talks.' We have agreed to do so, but the United States has stated to them, in no uncertain terms, that the Cease Fire is OVER!" Trump wrote on Truth Social on July 10.

The president did not mince words about Iranian leadership, calling them "sick people" and "scum," and warning that the U.S. would "be hitting them hard tonight." He also threatened to potentially "take over Kharg Island"—Iran's main oil export terminal.

U.S. Strikes 80+ Iranian Targets

The ceasefire collapse followed Iranian attacks on commercial vessels in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. In response, U.S. Central Command launched strikes against more than 80 Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps targets over two consecutive days.

Iran responded by announcing a new military doctrine making "no distinction between the US and its allies in the region"—a clear signal that American partners throughout the Middle East could face direct retaliation for Washington's actions.

Israel Ready for Third Strike

Defense Minister Katz told reporters that Israel remains closely coordinated with Washington and is prepared to act if called upon. "The Israel Defense Force is prepared to strike Iran for the third time—and with greater force than before," he declared.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had previously warned on July 1: "We entered Iran twice to save ourselves from destruction. There will be a third time if necessary. As long as I'm Prime Minister, Iran will not have nuclear weapons."

A U.S. official confirmed to media outlets that "Washington remains closely coordinated with Jerusalem" on potential military options.

NATO Backs U.S. Action

The NATO summit in Ankara provided international cover for renewed U.S. strikes, with the alliance backing Trump's position that military action was "absolutely necessary" given Iran's provocations in the Strait of Hormuz.

The waterway is critical to global energy markets, with roughly 20% of the world's oil supply passing through the narrow passage. Any sustained disruption could send fuel prices soaring worldwide.

What Comes Next

Despite declaring the ceasefire over, Trump indicated that diplomatic channels remain open, with Iran requesting continued talks. However, the combination of U.S. strikes, Israeli warnings, and Iran's new doctrine suggests the region may be heading toward a more sustained confrontation.

The original ceasefire, announced by Trump on June 23, 2025, had brought a fragile pause to hostilities following Israel's devastating strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. With that pause now shattered, both sides appear to be preparing for whatever comes next.