US-Iran War: Day 32 — Trump Says Conflict Could End in Weeks as Hormuz Remains Closed
The US-Israel war against Iran entered its 32nd day on 1 April 2026, with President Donald Trump claiming the conflict could end within two to three weeks while Iran's foreign minister insisted Tehran is prepared to fight for at least six months.
The Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed, with Iran imposing tolls on passing ships payable in Chinese yuan, and oil prices holding above $100 per barrel — levels not seen since July 2022.
Background
The conflict began on 28 February 2026, following US and Israeli military strikes targeting Iran's nuclear and military infrastructure. The war has drawn in regional actors including Hezbollah in Lebanon and Houthi rebels in Yemen, and has caused significant civilian casualties and infrastructure damage across the region.
Key Developments
US Central Command released footage showing precision munitions striking underground military targets in Iran. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the US has destroyed Iran's navy, air force, and a significant portion of its missile capabilities, and is ahead of schedule in achieving its military objectives. Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi rejected any deadlines set by adversaries, stating that Iran would defend itself for as long as necessary.
The Iranian Health Ministry reported 2,076 people killed and 26,500 injured, while independent news agency HRANA put the death toll at 3,519, including 1,212 military personnel and 1,598 civilians. US forces have sustained 15 soldiers killed and 348 military personnel wounded. Lebanon has seen 1,238 killed and 3,543 injured, including two UN peacekeepers killed by Israeli attacks — prompting France to call an emergency UN Security Council meeting.
Iran has threatened to attack 17 American technology companies, including Apple, Microsoft, Google, and Tesla, if more Iranian leaders are killed. A Kuwaiti oil tanker in Dubai waters was struck by an Iranian drone, and a missile from Iran reportedly hit an oil tanker off Qatar's coast. The UK Maritime Trade Operations has received 26 reports of incidents affecting vessels in and around the Arabian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz since the war began.
Why It Matters
The conflict has significant implications for the UK and Ireland, with rising energy prices threatening household budgets and supply chains. The IMF has warned of higher prices and slower global growth, particularly for energy importers in Europe. Trump is scheduled to address the US nation on Wednesday night with an important update on Iran, which could signal a shift in the conflict's trajectory.
What's Next
Indirect diplomatic communications are ongoing through intermediaries, though Iran has rejected a 15-point US proposal as largely excessive, unrealistic and unreasonable. Reopening the Strait of Hormuz is expected to take significant time even if fighting ends, due to high shipping insurance costs and reluctance among maritime workers. Follow Al Jazeera's live coverage.
