US-Israel war on Iran: What’s happening on day 27 of attacks?

EXPLAINERThe US and Israel’s war on Iran is intensifying, as Trump again claims Iranian leaders want to ‘make a deal’.Published On 26 Mar 2026The United States and Israel’s war on Iran continues, with an Al Jazeera correspondent in Tehran reporting strikes are “increasing in number and in intensity” amid conflicting claims about whether negotiations are taking place.US President Donald Trump says talks are happening, but Iran rejects the talks, saying it will continue to “resist” US aggression.On Thursday, Iran carried out retaliatory strikes against Israel and several Gulf countries, as the Middle East conflict sees no signs of ending, and global energy and food prices continue to rise.In Iran Intensifying attacks: US-Israeli attacks on Iran are “increasing in number and in intensity”, according to Al Jazeera correspondent, with Israel announcing extensive strikes on central Isfahan. Alongside US forces, Israel has launched a “wave of extensive strikes” across Iran. Civilian casualties reported: Iranian media reported that two teenage boys were killed in a recent US-Israeli strike on a residential area in a village in the county of Shiraz. Iran talks: US President Donald Trump insisted that Iran was taking part in peace talks. Iran chooses ‘resistance’: Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran will continue its “resistance” and does not intend to negotiate. US targets missile capacities: The US has hit two-thirds of Iran’s production facilities for missiles and drones, a top officer said. Threat to Iranian island: Tehran warned enemies may try to occupy one of its islands with support from an unnamed regional country. Iran’s leverage: Jane Foley, an analyst from Rabobank, noted that Tehran’s position on negotiations leaves the ball firmly in their court. Because the critical Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed, she suggests Iran could have the power to dictate the terms of any resolution. New toll legislation: The Iranian parliament is preparing a draft law that would mandate the collection of tolls and duties from ships and tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz, treating the waterway like a standard transit corridor.