| "Hopes for a ceasefire are rising as the conflict intensifies and expands across multiple fronts.." |
** “A fragile window for peace has opened, but with missiles still falling,
the path to a lasting ceasefire remains dangerously uncertain.”
|
"Hopes for a ceasefire are rising as the conflict intensifies and expands across multiple fronts.."
06/04/2026
(See translation in Arabic section)
Sydney-Middle East Times Int'l: Efforts to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East are underway, as the United States, Iran, and regional mediators explore the possibility of a 45-day ceasefire, according to a report by Axios.
Sources familiar with the discussions say mediators are working on a two-phase agreement. The first phase would involve a temporary 45-day ceasefire, during which negotiations toward a permanent end to the war would take place. The second phase would focus on reaching a final agreement to end the conflict.
Despite these diplomatic efforts, violence continues across the region.
Iran’s state-linked media reported that U.S. and Israeli forces bombed two residential buildings in a town in Tehran province, killing at least 13 people. The area, described as densely populated, remains the site of ongoing search and rescue operations, with authorities attempting to locate individuals trapped beneath the rubble.
In Tehran, gas outages were reported in parts of the city following a strike near Sharif University of Technology. Iran’s state broadcaster said the attack hit a gas facility, causing temporary disruptions in the surrounding neighbourhood.
Iran’s Central Military Command warned of stronger retaliation if civilian targets continue to be struck. In a statement carried by Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting, a spokesperson said further attacks on civilians would trigger responses that are “more devastating and widespread.”
Iran has also issued warnings regarding global shipping routes. Senior adviser Ali Akbar Velayati cautioned that key maritime choke points beyond the Strait of Hormuz could be at risk if hostilities escalate. He specifically highlighted the Bab el-Mandeb Strait as equally strategic, warning that any disruption could severely impact global energy flows and international trade.
His remarks follow renewed threats from Donald Trump, who warned of severe consequences if Iran does not fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
On the ground in Israel, an Iranian missile strike hit a five-storey residential building in Haifa, injuring at least 11 people and leaving four missing, according to emergency services. One person was reported in critical condition, while others were treated for shock.
Meanwhile, Hezbollah claimed a series of attacks targeting Israeli forces. The group said explosive devices were deployed in southern Lebanon, followed by strikes on responding units. It also reported launching rockets toward Israeli military positions and northern towns.
Diplomatic engagement continues at the international level. Wang Yi and Sergey Lavrov held a phone call to discuss the escalating situation. China’s ambassador to the United Nations said both countries emphasised the need for fairness, an objective approach, and stronger international support to resolve the crisis. Lavrov reportedly stressed that military operations must cease immediately.
KUWAIT
Elsewhere in the Gulf, Kuwait said its air defence systems intercepted hostile missile and drone attacks, urging residents to follow safety instructions.
President Trump has set a deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, warning of potential U.S. strikes on Iranian infrastructure if demands are not met. Iranian officials responded by condemning the remarks as provocative and warned they would respond in kind to any attacks.
Trump also confirmed that U.S. forces rescued a second airman after an F-15E jet was downed in Iran. Iranian media reported that at least nine people were killed in airstrikes in the area where the rescue operation took place.
“Diplomacy is racing against time, as ceasefire efforts struggle to keep pace with a conflict that is rapidly expanding on multiple fronts.” |
