Tensions in the Middle East escalated dramatically on Tuesday as a ballistic missile launched by Iran struck an apartment complex in Be’er Sheva, southern Israel, killing at least three people and injuring several others. The strike came despite recent claims of a ceasefire agreement between Tehran and Tel Aviv.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that multiple air raid sirens were activated across southern Israel following the missile launch. Within the span of an hour, Iran reportedly fired three ballistic missiles targeting Israeli territory. One of the missiles struck a residential area, causing severe destruction and loss of life.

This latest attack unfolded just hours after U.S. President Donald Trump made a high-profile statement declaring a “complete and total ceasefire” between Israel and Iran. According to Trump, both nations had agreed to halt hostilities following Iran’s limited missile strike on a U.S. military base in Qatar on Monday, which itself was a retaliation to American airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.

However, Iranian officials swiftly dismissed any suggestion of a ceasefire. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi took to X (formerly Twitter), stating, “As of now, there is NO agreement on any ceasefire or cessation of military operations.” He emphasized that any final decision on halting Iran’s military action would be determined at a later stage.

The escalation traces back to June 13, when Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, targeting several Iranian nuclear and military sites. Iran quickly retaliated by unleashing missile barrages against Israeli cities. The conflict further intensified when the U.S. conducted airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear locations, prompting Tehran to target American bases in Qatar and Iraq.