The US-Israeli war on Iran has entered its 39th day with no sign of imminent resolution. As of April 7, 2026, Iran has rejected a US ceasefire proposal while President Donald Trump set an 8 p.m. ET deadline — midnight GMT — demanding Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face strikes on its power plants and bridges.
Iran Rejects Ceasefire, Demands Permanent End to War
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei stated clearly that Tehran is opposed to a temporary halt to the fighting. “We are calling for an end to the war and for preventing its recurrence,” Baghaei said, rejecting the US-proposed ceasefire plan. Iran’s position, as conveyed to Egypt and other intermediaries, is that any pause must come with guarantees of a permanent resolution — not merely a pause that would allow US and Israeli forces to regroup.
Egyptian officials, who are serving as diplomatic intermediaries, told NPR that Iran may be open to a 45-day ceasefire, provided it includes guarantees that the war will end permanently and that Iran would discuss opening the Strait of Hormuz during that window. However, no formal agreement has been reached.
F-15E Crew Rescued After Shootdown Over Iran
On April 3, 2026, a US Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle was shot down over Iranian territory. The incident marked a significant escalation. By April 5, US forces confirmed both crew members had been safely rescued in a complex operation involving hundreds of military and intelligence personnel, including special operations forces and CIA operatives. One crew member had evaded capture for more than 24 hours, hiding alone while navigating rugged terrain as the rescue unfolded.
Human Toll: At Least 34 Killed, Including Six Children
According to data compiled by Al Jazeera and confirmed by other outlets as of April 6, US-Israeli strikes across Iran have killed at least 34 people, including at least six children. The strikes have targeted military infrastructure, command facilities, and strategic energy assets. The humanitarian impact on civilian populations continues to be documented by international organizations.
Global Shipping Disruption
The Strait of Hormuz remains blocked or severely restricted for international shipping. The waterway, through which approximately 20% of global oil supply passes, has been closed since Iran took defensive measures early in the conflict. This has significantly slowed international cargo and medical shipments destined for Asia and Africa. Oil prices and global markets have been under pressure as a result.
Diplomatic Efforts: Pakistan, Egypt, Turkey
Three key intermediary nations — Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey — are coordinating diplomatic efforts to bring both sides to the table. Turkish officials have been in contact with Tehran, while Egyptian channels remain the primary conduit for communication between the US and Iranian governments. Pakistan has offered to host potential preliminary talks.
CNBC reported on April 6 that the US and Iran are studying a ceasefire proposal, but no timeline for acceptance or rejection has been confirmed by Washington.
FAQ
Q: What is Trump’s April 7 deadline about?
A: President Trump set an 8 p.m. ET deadline on April 7 demanding that Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping. Trump threatened to order strikes on Iran’s power plants and bridges if the deadline is not met. Iran has not agreed to reopen the strait as of the time of writing.
Q: How long has the US-Iran war been going on?
A: The US-Israeli military campaign against Iran began in late February/early March 2026. As of April 7, 2026, the conflict is in its 39th day. The war has involved airstrikes, a US F-15E shootdown, at least 34 confirmed deaths, and a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
This article was written by AI based on publicly available information. Disclamer: This is a news summary compiled from multiple sources and does not represent editorial opinion.
