Watch: Trump's shifting deadlines for ending Iran war

In a primetime address on Wednesday, Donald Trump discussed the US-Israeli military operation in Iran, stating that its core strategic objectives were "nearing completion" after one month of war. He projected the conflict would last an additional two to three weeks. However, the BBC's Chief International Correspondent, Lyse Doucet, noted that Trump's timelines regarding the war have been inconsistent. The address, intended to provide clarity on the situation, left several questions unanswered about the future of the conflict. The location of the address was not specified in the article.

On Wednesday, April 1, 2026, President Donald Trump addressed the nation from the White House regarding the ongoing war in Iran. He assured Americans that military objectives would be completed "shortly" and requested more time from a skeptical public. Trump's speech aimed to calm jittery markets amid rising oil prices and falling Asian stocks, although he vowed continued pressure on Iran. While dialing back recent aggressive rhetoric, he offered no specifics on negotiations that could lead to a resolution, only promising to "finish the job." The address comes as Iran continues to inflict damage on Gulf neighbors and U.S. bases.

Yemen's Houthis have entered the regional conflict between Iran and its enemies, the US and Israel, with a confirmed attack on Israel in March 2026. While the Houthis align with Iran's broader strategy as part of the "Axis of Resistance," they maintain a degree of independence in their decision-making. Iran provides support, expertise, and political cover, but the Houthis prioritize their domestic objectives in Yemen, where they control Sanaa and much of the northwest. This allows them to leverage regional escalations to serve their own project within Yemen, without directly mirroring the actions of other Iran-backed groups like Hezbollah. The Houthis' relationship with Iran is an unequal partnership that allows them to act in their own interests.

Analysts suggest that Donald Trump's plan to seize Iran's Kharg Island, a crucial oil hub handling 90% of Iran's crude shipments, carries significant risks due to its strategic location in the Persian Gulf. Kharg Island is located 33km off the Iranian mainland, placing it within range of Iranian missiles and drones, and 660km from the Strait of Hormuz. The Trump administration is considering this action to pressure Iran into reopening the Strait, which has been effectively shut in response to US-Israeli strikes that began on February 28. Trump's recent speech hinted at further strikes and the nearing completion of "Operation Epic Fury," raising concerns about a potential US seizure of Kharg Island amidst increasing American troop presence in the region. Trump has repeatedly threatened to seize the island since the start of the US-Israeli military campaign.

On day 34 of the US-Israel war against Iran, the conflict intensifies with continued US-Israeli bombing campaigns and Iranian missile counterattacks. Despite President Trump's claim that the US has "destroyed the Iranian military" and is close to achieving its objectives, Iran launched a new wave of missiles at Israel. Iran denies requesting a ceasefire, as claimed by Trump, and describes US demands as "irrational." Diplomatic efforts remain stalled due to a lack of trust. President Pezeshkian appealed to the American public to question the US's motives for continuing the war. Former Iranian foreign minister Kamal Kharazi was seriously wounded in a strike on his Tehran home.

In an open letter to the American public, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian questioned the benefits of the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran. Published on April 1, 2026, the letter urges Americans to critically examine whose interests are being served by the conflict. Pezeshkian refuted portrayals of Iran as a threat, citing previous attacks during nuclear negotiations and emphasizing the detrimental effects of targeting Iranian infrastructure. He argued that such actions constitute war crimes, destabilize the region, and damage the United States' global standing. The letter was released shortly after President Trump threatened further military action against Iran if the Strait of Hormuz remained closed.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian addressed the American public in an unusual open letter on Wednesday, criticizing the US's actions against Iran. He described the conflict as costly and futile for the United States, arguing that confrontation is less beneficial than peace. Pezeshkian highlighted Iran's historical resilience against aggressors, suggesting the US's approach is misguided. He questioned the benefits of the conflict for the American people and the justification for it, implying there was no real threat from Iran. The letter is seen as an attempt to influence US public opinion and indirectly push for de-escalation.

Donald Trump has expressed interest in seizing Iranian oil, specifically targeting Kharg Island, a key export hub. This statement, made amidst ongoing conflict between the US and Iran, has drawn criticism and raised questions about the true motives behind the war. Experts suggest Trump's desire reflects a belief in "fossil-fuel imperialism," where the US is entitled to resources it desires. Trump has threatened to obliterate Iran's energy infrastructure, including Kharg Island, if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened and a peace deal reached quickly. Iran has attacked a crude oil tanker anchored at Dubai port. Trump is expected to provide an update on the Iran war on Wednesday.

China and Pakistan jointly proposed a five-point plan on Tuesday aimed at de-escalating the Iran crisis, calling for an immediate ceasefire and the start of peace negotiations. Chinese analysts view the plan as a practical step towards renewed diplomacy. This initiative signals an effort to influence the post-war Middle East order, particularly as the traditional US-led security structure faces challenges. Pakistan, Turkey, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia have formed a united regional diplomatic front, seeking to establish a distinct peace-broker channel separate from Western efforts. The China-Pakistan plan emerged after discussions in Beijing between the foreign ministers of both countries. The collective goal is to prevent further escalation and the potential disruption of global energy routes.

On day 32 of the US-Israeli attacks on Iran, air strikes continue in Tehran and Isfahan. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that US war objectives would be achieved in weeks, while communication with Tehran continues through intermediaries. President Trump threatened to destroy Iran's oil export hub and energy infrastructure if a deal isn't reached soon. Iran's parliament approved tolls on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, effectively closed by the war, and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps confirmed the death of its naval commander in an Israeli strike. Iran also launched its 87th regional attack in a month, signaling continued naval strength despite US claims.

A Kuwaiti oil tanker anchored at Dubai port was struck by an Iranian drone, causing a fire and damage to the vessel's hull. The incident occurred amidst heightened tensions in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, hours after former President Trump threatened to target Iran's energy infrastructure if it didn't open the Strait of Hormuz. No injuries were reported, and the fire was quickly extinguished. The attack is the latest in a series of strikes on merchant vessels in the region. The US has accused Iran of using diplomacy as a cover for further attacks, while continuing to give mixed messages about ending the war that the US started together with Israel. The Philippines, heavily reliant on Middle Eastern oil imports, is particularly vulnerable to economic shocks resulting from the conflict.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated Iran has the "will" to end the ongoing war with the US and Israel, seeking guarantees against future conflict. This statement followed recent strikes on Iran and threats from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to retaliate against US tech companies, including Google, Meta, and Apple, for alleged complicity in the assassinations of Iranian leaders. The Guards threatened to target these companies' units if further assassinations occur. The war, initiated on February 28 by US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with the killing of Iran's supreme leader, has triggered regional retaliation. Trump's stance on further escalation, including potential ground troop deployment, versus negotiation remains unclear.

In March 2026, amidst a month-long war with Iran that disrupted global markets and increased energy prices, former US President Donald Trump urged countries to either purchase oil from the United States or take it from the Strait of Hormuz. Trump criticized nations like the United Kingdom and France for not supporting US-Israeli strikes against Iran. He suggested these countries, facing jet fuel shortages due to the Strait's closure, should assert themselves and seize oil, implying the US would no longer provide assistance. Trump also cited France's refusal to allow military supply flights to Israel as further justification for his stance. His statements were made via a Truth Social post.

In March 2026, amidst an escalating US-Israel war on Iran, Pakistan offered to host peace talks between Iran and the United States. Pakistan's Foreign Minister convened a meeting with Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Egypt, expressing Islamabad's readiness to broker meaningful discussions. Given Pakistan's close ties with both Tehran and Washington, it is seen as a potential facilitator for ending the conflict that began the previous month. Experts suggest this initiative could mark the beginning of a diplomatic effort to achieve a peaceful resolution. The feasibility of reaching a peace deal was discussed with analysts including a former Pakistani UN representative and directors from the International Crisis Group and TEPAV.

Pakistan and China have jointly proposed a five-part peace plan for the Middle East, following a meeting between Pakistani and Chinese foreign ministers in Beijing. Pakistan is seeking to play a peacemaking role between the United States and Iran amidst ongoing conflict. The proposal emphasizes dialogue and diplomacy as the solution, calling for an immediate ceasefire and protection of waterways. Pakistan has been actively communicating with leaders from the US, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt, positioning itself as a mediator and offering Islamabad as a location for peace talks. China, while maintaining neutrality, has expressed concern for the safety of its oil tankers and called for a ceasefire.

Experts warn that President Trump's threat to seize Iran's Kharg Island, the hub of 90% of its oil exports, carries significant risks. Military analysts suggest a naval blockade might be a better option to pressure Iran. Seizing the island could escalate the ongoing conflict, prompting retaliation from Iran and its proxies, potentially disrupting global energy supplies. Experts highlight the difficulty of securing and holding the island, which is close to the Iranian mainland and vulnerable to attack. While Trump faces pressure to end the month-long conflict, analysts caution that seizing Kharg Island may not force Iran to capitulate and could endanger American troops.

European officials report that Iran is pressuring the Houthi rebels in Yemen to prepare for renewed attacks on Red Sea shipping. This action is reportedly contingent on further escalation by the US against Iran. Houthi leaders are considering more aggressive actions after launching ballistic missiles at Israel. Internal divisions exist within the Houthi leadership regarding the extent of aggression. While the Houthis announced they would continue military operations until US-Israeli attacks on Iran and its proxies cease, they did not explicitly state they would target Red Sea vessels. US and Saudi Arabian officials believe the Houthis currently aim to avoid further escalation and attacks on American and Saudi assets.

Amidst increased US military presence in the Middle East, Iran alleges that the US is secretly planning a ground assault, despite publicly discussing ceasefire talks. Former President Trump has made statements threatening Iran's energy infrastructure, suggesting the US could seize Iranian oil and its Kharg Island export hub. He also claimed to be in talks with a new "reasonable regime" in Iran. The situation is further complicated by the involvement of Yemen's Houthi forces, raising concerns about potential damage to the global economy. Jonathan Freedland discusses these developments on Politics Weekly America, available on YouTube and as a podcast.

In late March 2026, tensions escalated in the Gulf region as Iran launched attacks across the area, including a strike on a power and desalination plant in Kuwait that killed an Indian worker. Gulf states reported intercepting drones and missiles amidst the ongoing conflict. Simultaneously, United States President Donald Trump stated his desire to "take the oil in Iran" during an interview. Iran accused Washington of planning a ground attack, despite the U.S. publicly advocating for a negotiated resolution. These events occurred against the backdrop of ongoing US-Iran negotiations and broader concerns about regional stability. The attacks and statements heightened fears of further escalation in the region.

Iran has accused the United States of secretly planning a ground assault while publicly seeking negotiations, amidst ongoing tensions. This accusation comes as the conflict, which has already caused significant global energy disruption, enters its second month. President Trump stated in an interview that he would prefer to seize Iranian oil and suggested that taking Kharg Island, a crucial Iranian export hub, would be easy. The situation is developing, and the potential seizure of Iranian crude oil is significant for Cuba, which is currently experiencing severe fuel shortages due to a lack of imports. Cuba's president has stated that the country has not received any oil imports for three months.

A meeting of the foreign ministers of Egypt, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey in Islamabad signals the potential formation of a new four-nation bloc focused on de-escalating tensions in the Middle East. The group aims to establish a ceasefire amid escalating disputes, particularly between Iran and Israel, and prevent further conflict. The immediate goal is to persuade all sides to stop escalation and agree to a ceasefire. The group will act as an intermediary with Iran, maintaining indirect negotiating channels with the US. Following the meeting, Pakistan briefed China on the crisis, suggesting a possible role for China as a guarantor of any agreement.

In late March 2026, Pakistan hosted a meeting with the foreign ministers of Turkiye, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia to address the US-Israel war on Iran and Tehran's retaliatory strikes. The four nations formed a committee to facilitate direct talks between the US and Iran, with Pakistan acting as the primary channel. Both the US and Iran have expressed confidence in Pakistan's ability to mediate. The goal is to contain the conflict, de-escalate military tensions, and establish a framework for structured negotiations. This initiative follows an earlier meeting in Riyadh and aims to build on Pakistan's history as a backchannel between rival powers. However, the success of these efforts remains uncertain amid military build-up and other factors.

Iraq's relations with Arab nations are strained due to attacks launched from Iraqi soil by Iran-aligned armed groups targeting Gulf infrastructure. Six Arab nations, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, issued a joint condemnation, holding Iraq responsible for failing to control these groups and citing violations of sovereignty and international law. They referenced UN Security Council Resolution 2817 and asserted their right to self-defense. Iraq's Foreign Ministry responded by affirming the importance of Arab security and denying the use of its territory for attacks, offering to investigate any evidence. Analysts suggest Iraq's inability to control these factions is undermining its sovereignty.

According to U.S., Gulf, and Israeli officials, Gulf allies, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, are privately lobbying President Trump to persist in the war against Iran. These allies believe that the month-long U.S.-led bombing campaign has not sufficiently weakened Tehran. The Gulf states initially expressed discontent over the lack of advance notice regarding the U.S.-Israeli attack. They also felt the U.S. had previously disregarded their warnings concerning the war. The Gulf allies are advocating for continued military action to achieve a more decisive defeat of Iran. The events described in the article are dated in March of 2026.

As Donald Trump plans a trip to China in May, a surge in US troops in the Middle East suggests a potential for a drawn-out, low-intensity conflict with Iran. Recent reports indicate the US has deployed several hundred Army Rangers and Navy Seals to the region, bringing the total number of American troops to over 50,000. This deployment provides Trump with military options, such as securing the Strait of Hormuz, seizing Kharg Island, or extracting enriched uranium from Iran. Analysts believe a full-scale US ground invasion of Iran is unlikely, suggesting the US is trying to avoid a costly, protracted war. The troop increase and potential actions are viewed in the context of Trump's upcoming visit to China.

One month after the US and Israel began military operations against Iran on February 28, 2026, Yemen's Houthi rebels have opened a new front by attacking Israel. The Houthis launched missile and drone attacks on Israel, which were reportedly intercepted, pledging further action in support of allies. This escalation raises concerns about the conflict spiraling out of control, as Iran has already disrupted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. The Houthis' involvement also threatens to disrupt Red Sea traffic via the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, potentially impacting Israeli trade. The US anticipates concluding its military operations against Iran within weeks, even as further deployments arrive in the region.

Reports suggest the U.S. government is considering potential ground operations in Iran, possibly targeting nuclear facilities or securing the Strait of Hormuz. These plans, reported by the Washington Post, involve limited raids by Special Operations and conventional forces, not a full-scale invasion. In response, Iran's parliament speaker stated that Iran would never surrender to the U.S. and warned that Iranian forces are prepared to confront American troops. The speaker added that Iran's missile capabilities are in place and their determination has increased. While the White House says the Pentagon is preparing options, no decision has been made by the President. The possibility of U.S. ground operations remains politically sensitive and carries military risks.

Marking one month since the start of a war disrupting global energy supplies, Iran accused the US of secretly planning a ground assault while publicly seeking negotiations. Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated that Iranian forces are prepared to confront any American troops. Donald Trump, in an interview, suggested seizing Iranian oil and targeting Kharg Island, while also mentioning ongoing indirect talks. Simultaneously, the conflict saw escalation with Yemen's Houthis entering the war and Israel expanding its invasion of southern Lebanon. A UN peacekeeper was killed in Lebanon, prompting an investigation into the projectile's origin.

Amidst a global energy crisis caused by the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran, Pakistan is hosting talks in Islamabad with the foreign ministers of Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. The meetings, which began on Sunday, March 29, 2026, aim to de-escalate the conflict. Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is attempting to build a regional bloc, potentially including Indonesia and Malaysia, to encourage diplomacy. This diplomatic push follows a phone call between Dar and his Iranian counterpart, during which the Iranian minister detailed accusations of US-Israeli attacks on Iranian infrastructure. As a confidence-building measure, Iran has agreed to allow Pakistani ships passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

Diplomats from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt convened in Pakistan on Sunday to discuss ending the month-long conflict in the Middle East between Iran, the US, and Israel. The war, triggered by US and Israeli strikes on Iran, has resulted in over 3,000 deaths and threatens global oil supplies due to Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz. The US and Israel are not participating in the Islamabad talks, but the US has reportedly offered Iran a 15-point peace proposal via Pakistan. The meetings aim to establish direct dialogue between the US and Iran, who have primarily communicated through mediators during the conflict, which has been further complicated by the entry of Yemen's Houthi rebels.

Pakistan is hosting top diplomats from Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Egypt in Islamabad for two-day talks focused on de-escalating the conflict between the US and Iran. The meetings, led by Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, aim to foster dialogue and diplomacy as a solution to the escalating tensions. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, who thanked Pakistan for its mediation efforts. Pakistan is acting as a key communicator between the US and Iran, relaying messages in an attempt to find a resolution to the conflict. The talks are considered a critical step towards finding a viable diplomatic solution.

Reports indicate the Pentagon is preparing options for potential ground operations in Iran, including special forces raids or infantry deployments. This comes as the US increases its military presence in the Middle East, with an additional 3,500 troops arriving recently, joining the roughly 50,000 already stationed in the region. Potential objectives for military action could include securing the Strait of Hormuz, seizing Iranian uranium, or targeting oil facilities. Lawmakers are debating the necessity and scope of any potential ground involvement, with Senator Lankford emphasizing the need for clear objectives and a defined exit strategy. The White House stated that the Pentagon's preparations are for optionality and do not indicate a presidential decision has been made.

The Pentagon is reportedly preparing plans for weeks of limited ground operations in Iran, potentially including raids on Kharg Island and coastal sites near the Strait of Hormuz. According to The Washington Post, the plans involve special operations and conventional infantry troops, but fall short of a full-scale invasion. These preparations come as the war in Iran stretches into its fifth week, with the US deploying additional Marines and soldiers to the Middle East, including approximately 3,500 soldiers who recently arrived on the USS Tripoli. Discussions within the administration have considered seizing Kharg Island, a key Iranian oil export hub, and raiding coastal areas to destroy weapons targeting commercial and military shipping. While the Pentagon is preparing options, it remains uncertain whether President Trump will approve any of these plans.

Chinese analysts believe the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, now in its second month, is unlikely to be prolonged despite escalating tensions. The conflict has expanded geographically, with Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen firing missiles at Israel, one of which was intercepted. The Houthis operate near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical shipping lane for Eurasian trade. Analysts warn that Houthi obstruction of this strait could significantly impact the global economy and potentially cause another increase in oil prices, which have already risen. The Houthi missile attack was reportedly issued as a warning.

Yemen's Houthi rebels launched a barrage of ballistic missiles targeting "sensitive Israeli military sites" in southern Israel on Saturday, marking their first direct strikes since the US-Israeli war on Iran began. Houthi military spokesperson Brigadier-General Yahya Saree announced the attack, stating it would continue until objectives are achieved and aggression against the resistance ceases. The Israeli military reported intercepting one missile, with sirens sounding in Beersheba and near Israel's nuclear research center. The Houthis, who have controlled Yemen's capital since 2014, had previously stayed out of the conflict, though they disrupted Red Sea shipping during the Israel-Hamas war. This attack signals a potential escalation of the broader regional conflict.

The conflict between the US-Israeli alliance and Iran has escalated with the entry of Houthi forces from Yemen, who launched missile attacks on Israeli military sites. This expansion threatens key maritime routes like the Bab al-Mandab strait, potentially amplifying the war's impact on the global economy. While Israel claims to have intercepted one missile, the Houthis vow to continue operations until aggression ceases. A meeting of Middle Eastern powers in Pakistan aims to find a regional solution, but excludes the warring parties. Attacks have also been reported on a Saudi airbase and Kuwait airport, raising concerns about further regional involvement, including potential direct intervention by Saudi Arabia if its Red Sea oil export route is threatened.

The Houthi movement in Yemen, backed by Iran, poses a significant threat to Red Sea shipping lanes. While their missile attacks on Israel have been limited, the Houthis' potential targeting of vessels in the Bab al-Mandab strait could severely disrupt global trade and energy supplies. This action, taken in support of Hamas, risks escalating tensions and further damaging the global economy, especially if coupled with Iran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz. The Houthis have previously targeted Gulf Arab neighbors and faced retaliatory strikes. Increased Houthi involvement could reignite Yemen's internal conflict and broaden the ongoing regional war. The extent of the Houthis' future actions remains uncertain.

A month into the US and Israel's war with Iran, President Trump's initial expectations of a swift resolution are unmet. Despite assassinating Iranian leaders and conducting extensive airstrikes, the Iranian regime has not collapsed, and its missile capabilities remain a regional threat. Diplomatic efforts, mediated by Pakistan, have stalled as Iran has hardened its stance against US demands. Washington seeks the dismantling of Iran's nuclear program, the surrender of its enriched uranium stockpile, the elimination of most Iranian missiles, and the cessation of support for allied militias like Hezbollah and the Houthis. The conflict continues, raising concerns about prolonged chaos in the region.

On day 28 of the US-Israel war on Iran, March 27, 2026, President Trump delayed attacks on Iranian energy infrastructure until April 6, citing progress in peace talks, despite Iran's description of the US proposal as unfair. Pakistan, Turkiye, and Egypt are mediating to prevent a wider regional conflict. US and Israeli forces continue to bombard Iranian cities, resulting in over 1,900 deaths, while Iran retaliates with missile and drone attacks on Israel and Gulf states. Iran's five demands, including war reparations and control over the Strait of Hormuz, are considered unacceptable by the US. Despite claims of progress, Iran focuses on ongoing attacks, viewing them as evidence of US insincerity, as Israel strikes infrastructure in Tehran.

According to an intelligence source, Saudi Arabia is urging the United States to intensify its attacks on Iran, viewing the current US-Israeli campaign as a crucial opportunity to reshape the Middle East. While not currently involved militarily in the conflict that began in late February, Saudi Arabia is considering direct intervention if peace efforts fail and Iran continues its attacks. Recent Iranian drone strikes, including one targeting an oil refinery in Yanbu on the Red Sea coast, have heightened tensions. Despite possessing a pipeline to transport oil via the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia faces potential threats to its economic lifeline and from Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. Saudi Arabia claims it is calibrating its response and preparing for potential escalation, while maintaining that it has not been pushing for war.

In a news report published on March 27, 2026, the Houthis warned they are prepared for direct military intervention in the US-Israeli war on Iran. The Houthis stated that their "fingers are on the trigger," indicating a readiness to engage in the conflict. The report specifies that the Houthis have laid out conditions that would prompt their involvement in the war. The exact nature of these conditions was not detailed in the provided information, but the statement signals a potential escalation of the conflict in the Middle East. The Houthis' warning suggests a willingness to take military action depending on unfolding circumstances related to the US-Israeli war on Iran.

Yemenis fear potential economic consequences as they could be drawn into the conflict between the U.S. and Iran. While Iran's allies, such as Hezbollah, are actively involved, the Iran-allied Houthis in Yemen have not yet engaged. However, the Houthis possess the capability to target shipping in the Red Sea, and an Iranian official suggested they could destabilize the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb Strait if the U.S. attacks Iranian oil facilities. Analysts warn that Houthi involvement, such as blockading Bab al-Mandeb, would devastate Yemen economically and humanitarianly, and could reignite Yemen's internal conflict. Abdulsalam Mohammed suggests the Houthis would likely target energy facilities and ports in Gulf countries.

Amid ongoing conflict, Iran rejected a US ceasefire proposal, offering its own negotiation plan, though stating it has "no intention of negotiating for now." Despite this, President Trump claimed Iran desires a deal but fears internal and external repercussions. China urged dialogue between the US and Iran, seeing a "glimmer of hope for peace." Israel conducted strikes across Iran, including in Isfahan, targeting Iranian infrastructure. Kuwait arrested six individuals allegedly involved in a Hezbollah plot to assassinate Gulf leaders. The US military reported hitting over 10,000 targets in Iran, claiming significant damage to Iranian naval and missile capabilities.

In March 2026, amidst the ongoing war between the US/Israel and Iran, the US, under President Trump, reportedly sent a 15-point ceasefire plan to Iran via Pakistan. The plan aims to establish a one-month ceasefire for negotiations to end the conflict, which began in late February and has caused significant casualties, disrupted shipping, and roiled global markets. Iran has consistently denied engaging in talks with the US, dismissing Trump's claims of productive conversations. The war was initiated by the US and Israel while negotiations with Iran were ongoing. Iran's response included closing the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on US assets, leading to soaring oil prices. While reports of the US plan have slightly calmed markets, the possibility of successful negotiations remains uncertain due to the conflicting demands of both sides.

Amidst ongoing conflict in the Middle East, China's top diplomat, Wang Yi, urged Iran to engage in negotiations with the United States. In a phone call on Tuesday, Wang told Iranian diplomat Abbas Araghchi that dialogue is preferable to conflict, emphasizing the need for all parties to initiate the peace process swiftly. This call for talks comes as the conflict threatens to escalate, impacting global ties, particularly those of Gulf states. The status of potential peace talks remains unclear, especially given Iran's rejection of a reported US ceasefire proposal. China's intervention highlights its growing diplomatic role in the region.

Iran rejected a US ceasefire proposal for the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and launched further attacks on Israel and Gulf Arab countries, including a strike at Kuwait International Airport on Wednesday. Simultaneously, Israel launched air strikes on Tehran, and the US deployed additional troops to the region. An Iranian official stated that Iran has not engaged in ceasefire talks and has its own demands to end the fighting. The US proposal, transmitted via Pakistan, reportedly included sanctions relief, limitations on Iran's nuclear program and missiles, and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The proposal also included restrictions on Iran’s support for armed groups.

Amidst ongoing conflict initiated by a US-Israeli attack on February 28, 2026, Iran's negotiating position appears to have strengthened. Despite claims from the US and Israel that Iran's military capabilities have been significantly degraded, Iran has demonstrated its ability to retaliate, including attacks on Qatar's gas site and Israeli cities. Indirect communication channels between the US and Iran have been established through Egypt, Turkiye, and Pakistan. Iran now seeks not only a ceasefire but also long-term economic and security guarantees, including payment repatriations, assurances against future attacks, and a new regulatory framework for the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts caution that Iran will likely seek concessions that the US and Gulf nations will be unable to agree to.