0
0
Iran and Israel traded fresh attacks on Tuesday, April 7, as Tehran refused to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or accept a ceasefire deal ahead of a deadline set by U.S. President Donald Trump, who warned of severe consequences if his demands were not met.
Despite the tensions, there were signs of potential diplomatic movement. Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan said efforts by Islamabad to mediate an end to the conflict were “approaching a critical, sensitive stage.” Iran has rejected a U.S.-backed proposal brokered by Pakistan calling for an immediate ceasefire, reopening of the strait, and broader peace talks within 15 to 20 days. Instead, Tehran submitted a 10-point plan that includes ending regional conflicts, ensuring safe passage through the strait, lifting sanctions, and rebuilding affected areas.
Trump issued stark warnings, stating that Iran could be “taken out in one night” if it failed to comply. He threatened widespread destruction of infrastructure, including power plants and bridges, if no agreement is reached by the deadline.
Fighting continued across the region. The Israeli military carried out airstrikes targeting Iranian government infrastructure in Tehran and other locations while intercepting missiles launched from Iran. Israel also warned Iranian civilians to avoid railways for safety reasons.
Saudi Arabia reported intercepting ballistic missiles aimed at its eastern region, with debris falling near energy facilities. The kingdom has faced repeated attacks involving missiles and drones since the conflict began, most of which were intercepted. Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates issued public safety alerts, and a key bridge linking Saudi Arabia and Bahrain was briefly closed as a precaution.
Amid questions about civilian infrastructure being targeted, Trump dismissed concerns over potential war crimes, saying he was “not at all” worried about such implications. Iran’s envoy to the United Nations condemned the threats, calling them “direct incitement to terrorism” and evidence of intent to commit war crimes. Iran’s military leadership also described Trump’s statements as unrealistic.
In a show of domestic defiance, Iran’s deputy sports minister urged citizens, including artists and athletes, to form human chains around power plants in protest against potential attacks on public infrastructure.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a major flashpoint. Iran has effectively shut down the waterway, which carries about one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supply, pushing oil prices higher. Brent crude rose above $111 per barrel, while U.S. crude exceeded $113.
The conflict has already taken a heavy toll. Thousands have been killed across the Middle East, including over 3,500 in Iran, according to a U.S.-based rights group, and nearly 1,500 in Lebanon, where Israeli strikes have targeted Hezbollah.
