Iran responded to U.S. President Donald Trump’s address with new missile attacks targeting Israel and Gulf Arab states on Thursday, April 2, 2026. This action highlights Tehran’s continued resistance to calls for a ceasefire.

Missile Attacks and Regional Impact

Explosions were heard in Dubai as air defenses intercepted an Iranian missile barrage. Shortly after President Trump’s address, Israel reported its military was also intercepting incoming missiles. Iran’s military defiantly stated that its armament facilities are hidden and impervious to attack.

Strait of Hormuz Concerns

Britain planned to convene a call with nearly three dozen countries to discuss reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil and gas trade. Approximately 20% of all oil and natural gas traded passes through the strait during peacetime.

International Efforts to Reopen the Strait

Thirty-five countries, including the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, previously signed a declaration demanding Iran cease blocking the strait. The upcoming call will focus on “diplomatic and political measures” to restore shipping once the fighting subsides. However, no nation appears willing to forcibly reopen the strait while conflict continues.

Trump's Address and U.S. Strategy

President Donald Trump spoke about the Iran war from the White House on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. He stated the U.S. would “hit Iran extremely hard over the next two to three weeks,” while also asserting that American “core strategic objectives are nearing completion.”

Trump encouraged countries reliant on oil from the Strait of Hormuz to “build some delayed courage” and secure their own access, suggesting the U.S. would not force the issue. He also thanked U.S. allies in the Persian Gulf for their cooperation.

Economic Consequences and Casualties

Oil prices have surged as a result of the conflict, reaching $108 a barrel – nearly a 50% increase since February 28, 2026, when the war began. This has created broader economic problems worldwide and increased domestic pressure on President Trump.

More than 1,900 people have been killed in Iran during the war, while 19 deaths have been reported in Israel. Over two dozen people have died in Gulf states and the occupied West Bank, and 13 U.S. service members have been killed.