Dubai

Iran has rejected a proposed 45-day ceasefire, insisting on a permanent end to the war, as a deadline set by US President Donald Trump for a deal approaches with escalating threats of attacks on critical infrastructure.

Tehran warned that any US strike on power plants or bridges would trigger severe retaliation, including disruption of regional oil and gas supplies—particularly through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

Key developments

Escalation and threats

• Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said over 14 million Iranians are ready to “sacrifice their lives” for the country.
• Iran’s Revolutionary Guard warned it could cut off energy supplies to the US and its allies for years if attacked.
• Trump reiterated that failure to comply could result in destruction of Iran’s infrastructure within hours.

International concerns

• UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned that targeting civilian infrastructure would violate international law.
• Diplomatic efforts continue, but rhetoric on both sides has intensified sharply.

Military and security situation

• Israel carried out fresh airstrikes on Iran, while Iran responded with missile and drone attacks.
• At least 18 people were killed in an airstrike in Iran’s Alborz province.
• In northern Israel, rocket fire injured a civilian and caused damage to residential areas.

Maritime tensions

• A container ship was hit in the Persian Gulf near Iran, adding to over 20 vessels reportedly targeted since the conflict began.

Attack in Turkey

• A gunfight outside a building housing the Israeli Consulate in Istanbul left attackers dead and injured, with police also hurt.

Humanitarian and regional impact

• Over 1,900 people have been killed in Iran since the conflict began.
• In Lebanon, more than 1,400 deaths and 1 million displaced have been reported.
• Casualties have also been recorded in Israel, Gulf states, and among US personnel.

Gaza developments

• The World Health Organization has suspended medical evacuations from Gaza after a contractor was killed near the Rafah crossing.

Global ripple effects

Energy and transport disruptions

• Fuel shortages have led to restrictions at airports in northern Italy.
• France is facing localized fuel shortages, with emergency tanker deployments underway.

Voices from Iran

Amid the uncertainty, civilians expressed fear and frustration:

• Many fear escalation and prolonged hardship.
• Others support continued resistance, citing past conflicts and distrust of Western intentions.

Bottom line

With diplomacy faltering and the deadline imminent, the situation remains highly volatile. Any military escalation—especially targeting infrastructure—could trigger a wider regional crisis with significant global economic and energy consequences.