Iran Defies Trump’s Hormuz Ultimatum as Strikes Intensify; Casualties Reported in Haifa

Story: written by Springnewsng April 7,2026
Iran has firmly dismissed demands from U.S. President Donald Trump to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions in the region deepen and fresh violence claims lives on both sides, including two reported deaths in the Israeli city of Haifa.
Tehran has also strongly criticised the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), accusing the global nuclear watchdog of failing to act decisively following repeated strikes near the Bushehr nuclear power facility. Iran’s atomic energy chief, Mohammad Eslami, revealed that the country’s only operational nuclear plant has been targeted multiple times, with the latest incident occurring on April 4, resulting in the death of a security officer and injuries to others.
Eslami warned that continued attacks around an active nuclear reactor could trigger dangerous radioactive leaks, posing severe risks to human life, the environment, and neighbouring nations. He described the strikes as violations of international law and faulted the IAEA for what he called a weak response, arguing that mere statements of concern could encourage further aggression.
Meanwhile, regional tensions have expanded beyond Iran and Israel. Hezbollah announced a series of rocket attacks targeting northern Israeli communities, including Hurfeish, Shlomi, and Nahariya. The group also claimed responsibility for striking Israeli military positions near the Fatima Gate along the Lebanon-Israel border.
Iran has also condemned Washington’s rhetoric, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei describing U.S. threats against Iranian infrastructure as “war crimes.” He warned that any country supporting such actions would share legal responsibility under international law.
Baghaei emphasized that while Iran continues to defend itself militarily, its diplomatic channels remain active, guided by national security priorities and the interests of its citizens. He further cautioned that collaboration with the United States in any hostile action against Iran could be classified as crimes against humanity.
The ongoing escalation raises fears of a broader regional conflict, with growing concerns over civilian safety, nuclear security, and the stability of global energy routes.