Iran war: What is happening on day 40 of US-Israeli attacks?

Tensions are escalating between the US and Iran after President Trump threatened to destroy Iranian infrastructure if Iran doesn't comply with his demands regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has responded by threatening to target energy facilities in Saudi Arabia and the UAE if its own infrastructure is attacked. Strikes have intensified within Iran, hitting bridges, an airport, and a petrochemical plant, while US forces have attacked targets on Kharg Island. Gulf states are on alert due to intermittent Iranian attacks on US bases and infrastructure in the region since the war began last month.

The United States and Iran are nearing a potential escalation as a deadline set by President Trump for Iran to accept a peace agreement approaches. Trump threatened severe consequences, including the destruction of Iranian civilization, if Tehran does not comply by 8 PM EST. The US has reportedly continued operations targeting Iranian military sites, including Kharg Island, a major oil hub. Vice-President Vance indicated that the US possesses unused options and expects further negotiation. Pakistan has renewed mediation efforts amidst heightened tensions.

Following President Trump's escalating threats against Iran, including explicit language and warnings of potential war crimes, Democrats are calling for his removal from office. Over 20 Democratic members of Congress have urged the cabinet to invoke the 25th Amendment, deeming Trump unfit for office due to concerns about his mental stability and erratic behavior. These concerns were amplified by Trump's social media posts and speeches regarding Iran. Former Republican representative Marjorie Taylor Greene also joined the call for the 25th Amendment. While Democrats are vocalizing their alarm, Republicans have remained largely silent on the matter. The calls for Trump's removal highlight deep divisions and concerns regarding his leadership and handling of international relations.

US President Donald Trump announced a two-week suspension of bombing in Iran, describing it as a "double-sided ceasefire" mediated by Pakistan to allow for diplomacy. The suspension is conditional on Iran ensuring the immediate and safe opening of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump stated the US received a 10-point proposal from Iran, believing it could be a basis for negotiation. Iran's Foreign Minister confirmed that if attacks against Iran cease, their forces will halt defensive operations, ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz for two weeks. Negotiations between the US and Iran are scheduled to begin on April 10 in Islamabad.

Pakistan has proposed a peace plan to de-escalate tensions between the US and Iran, brokered through contacts between Pakistani army chief Asim Munir, US officials, and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The plan calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, followed by negotiations for a broader settlement within 15 to 20 days. This mediation effort comes as former President Trump issued a Tuesday deadline for a deal to allow traffic to resume through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global energy supplies. However, Iran has rejected the deadline and has not immediately agreed to reopen the strait, seeking guarantees of a permanent ceasefire. Neither Washington nor Tehran has formally responded to the Pakistani proposal.

Pakistan has proposed a two-stage plan, dubbed the "Islamabad Accord," to end the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran, with both sides considering the framework. The proposal involves an immediate ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, followed by 15-20 days to finalize a broader settlement. This settlement would include a regional framework for the Strait, Iranian commitments regarding nuclear weapons in exchange for sanctions relief and the release of frozen assets, with final talks in Islamabad. Pakistan's army chief has been in contact with US and Iranian officials to facilitate the agreement. However, Iran has stated it will not reopen the Strait of Hormuz as part of a temporary ceasefire.

Mediators from Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey have proposed an immediate ceasefire to the US and Iran to halt the ongoing five-week war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This follows Donald Trump's threat to bomb Iranian power plants if Iran doesn't open the strait by Tuesday. Iran has rejected opening the strait as part of a temporary ceasefire and stated that negotiations are incompatible with ultimatums. Ceasefire discussions involve Pakistani and US officials, as well as Trump's envoy and Iran's foreign minister. Israel, preparing for all scenarios, has claimed responsibility for recent explosions at Iranian petrochemical complexes, stating they are ready to escalate bombings if necessary.