Iran launched drones and missiles against Israel and Kuwait, according to reports from April 5, following a 48-hour ultimatum from United States President Donald Trump. The ultimatum demanded that Tehran reach an agreement to reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz or face severe consequences.
The conflict, which began on February 28 with an offensive by Israel and the United States against Iran, has impacted the global economy. Iranian retaliatory attacks have targeted U.S. allies in the Gulf region and led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for about 20 percent of world oil shipments.
President Trump posted on his platform Truth Social: “Remember when I gave Iran ten days to MAKE A DEAL or OPEN THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ.” He continued: “Time is running out: 48 hours before all hell breaks loose on them,” adding, “Glory to GOD!”
General Ali Abdollahi Aliabadi responded in a statement from Iran’s Central Headquarters Khatam al-Anbia, calling Trump’s ultimatum “a powerless, nervous, unbalanced and stupid action.” He added: “The gates of hell will open for them,” referencing Trump’s remarks.
Amid escalating tensions, both Kuwaiti and Israeli armed forces said their air defenses responded to recent attacks. The search continues for a missing American pilot after Iran reported downing two U.S. military aircraft—an F-15 fighter jet in southwestern Iran and an A-10 attack plane over the Gulf. According to local news agency Mehr citing provincial official Fatah Mohamadi, “the search involves popular forces and tribal members along with military personnel.” One crew member was reportedly rescued by U.S. special forces while another remains missing.
In related developments near Bushehr’s nuclear plant in southern Iran, a bombing killed one guard and prompted Russia to evacuate nearly 200 workers. Both Russia’s foreign ministry and the International Atomic Energy Agency condemned these strikes. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi warned that continued attacks could cause radioactive fallout affecting Gulf capitals more than Tehran itself.
Elsewhere Saturday saw bombings hit infrastructure targets including a cement factory at Iraq’s border (resulting in one death) as well as a petrochemical plant where five people died according to regional authorities cited by Isna news agency. In Lebanon—where Israeli forces are engaged with Hezbollah—two girls were killed along with dozens injured amid ongoing clashes.
