Reuters: Iran and Israel continued exchanging attacks as Tehran rejected a U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal ahead of a deadline set by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The proposal, reportedly brokered by Pakistan, called for an immediate ceasefire, reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and negotiations on a broader peace deal within 15–20 days. Iran declined and instead issued a 10-point response, demanding an end to regional conflicts, safe passage protocols in the strait, lifting of sanctions, and reconstruction measures.
Trump warned that if Iran failed to comply, the U.S. could launch massive strikes targeting Iranian infrastructure, including power plants and bridges.
Meanwhile, Israel said it carried out airstrikes on Iranian government infrastructure in Tehran, while Iranian missiles were intercepted by Israeli air defenses. Saudi Arabia also reported intercepting ballistic missiles near its eastern region, with debris falling close to energy facilities. Gulf states, including the UAE and Bahrain, issued public safety alerts.
Iran’s envoy to the United Nations condemned Trump’s threats as incitement to terrorism and potential war crimes under international law. Iranian officials and military leaders strongly rejected the U.S. position.
The conflict has also affected civilian sites, with reports of damage to a synagogue in central Tehran. Global oil markets reacted sharply, with prices hovering around $110 per barrel. The ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz—through which about 20% of the world’s oil and gas passes—has heightened fears of global inflation.
Since the war began on February 28, thousands have been killed across the region, including over 3,500 in Iran and nearly 1,500 in Lebanon, according to rights groups. The conflict has also strained the U.S. domestically, with casualties among American forces and the recent downing of a U.S. fighter jet inside Iranian territory, where one crew member was briefly stranded before being rescued.
