President Donald Trump said a ceasefire in the Middle East consists of shooting in a more moderate manner during a recent press interview.
The comments signal a departure from traditional diplomatic definitions of a ceasefire, which typically require a total cessation of hostilities. This interpretation could influence how the U.S. monitors and negotiates peace agreements in the region.
Trump spoke with a reporter from RTE News to explain what a ceasefire would look like in the Middle East [1]. He said a ceasefire there is much different than a ceasefire in other parts of the world [3]. Specifically, he said, "A ceasefire is when you’re shooting in a more moderate manner" [1].
During the same interview, the president addressed the status of diplomatic engagements with Tehran. Trump said talks with Iran are going well and could yield results over the weekend [1, 2].
Other reports have offered varying descriptions of the current state of regional peace efforts. While Trump defined the nature of the ceasefire in the RTE interview, CNN reported that he described the ceasefire as being "on life support" [2].
The president's remarks come as the administration continues to navigate complex security dynamics and diplomatic channels in the Middle East. The assertion that talks with Iran are progressing suggests a potential shift in the bilateral relationship between the two nations.
“"A ceasefire is when you’re shooting in a more moderate manner."”
The administration's unconventional definition of a ceasefire suggests a pragmatic or flexible approach to conflict management, where a reduction in intensity is prioritized over a complete stop to violence. Combined with the claim of progressing talks with Iran, this indicates a strategy focused on incremental stability rather than a formalized, comprehensive peace treaty.
