Why US and Israel Attacked Iran and How Long the War Might Last
US and Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iran in early April 2026 amid escalating regional tensions, with the conflict now entering a precarious ceasefire phase.
The United States and Israel carried out a series of attacks targeting Iranian nuclear, petrochemical, and military sites in early April 2026. Over 25 people were reportedly killed, including key leaders in Iran’s Revolutionary Guard and Quds Force. Israel claimed responsibility for strikes on the South Pars gas field and other strategic sites. These actions came amid U.S. President Donald Trump’s increasing threats toward Iran, including ultimatums to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and warnings to hit critical infrastructure such as power plants and bridges.
Iran rejected a proposed 45-day ceasefire, demanding a permanent end to hostilities with guarantees of non-aggression, reflecting Tehran’s hardened stance. However, after the initial wave of violence, a tenuous two-week ceasefire was established, with negotiations slated to start in Pakistan. The ceasefire focuses on reopening the Strait of Hormuz—a vital global oil shipping route—where Iran exercises significant control and had previously threatened closure.
Why the Attacks Happened
The immediate trigger for the US-Israel strikes was Iran’s escalated aggression in the Gulf region, including missile launches toward Israel and Gulf Arab states and threats to disrupt oil flow through the Strait of Hormuz. The US aims to pressure Iran over its nuclear program, regional militias, and its economic leverage through oil exports. Israel’s participation highlights its strategic priority to degrade Iran’s military and nuclear capabilities and thwart its proxies in Lebanon and Syria.
President Trump’s rhetoric also played a crucial role, with his repeated ultimatums setting a hard deadline for Iran to comply or face intensified military consequences. The strikes underscore a shift from indirect confrontation and sanctions to direct military engagement, marking a significant escalation after years of simmering tension.
How Long Could the War Last?
The conflict risks protraction but appears to have entered a volatile pause. The two-week ceasefire suggests both sides see value in temporary de-escalation to avoid full-scale war. Yet, fundamental issues remain unresolved:
- Iran’s nuclear ambitions and missile program
- Security of the Strait of Hormuz
- U.S. and Israeli demands for regime behavior change
- Influence over Lebanon’s Hezbollah and regional proxies
Should negotiations fail, the war could extend for months or years through a mix of proxy clashes, targeted strikes, and asymmetrical warfare. The involvement of Gulf Arab states, further missile attacks, and internal political pressures in all countries could prolong instability. Historically, conflicts between Iran and Israel or the US have persisted over years with intermittent flare-ups.
What to Watch Next
- Follow-up military actions or retaliatory strikes by Iran or its allied militias.
- Progress and sincerity of ceasefire talks in Pakistan.
- Stability and commercial flow through the Strait of Hormuz.
- Responses from Gulf Arab nations, particularly Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.
- Domestic political reactions in Iran, Israel, and the US, which may influence war dynamics.
The US-Israel attacks mark a critical juncture in a complex regional struggle. This crisis combines decades-long strategic rivalry, volatile flashpoints around oil security, and shifting international alignments. Its trajectory will shape Gulf security and global energy markets for the foreseeable future.
For non-US readers or overview on regional dynamics, see 
Global Politics and Middle East conflict profiles.
Sources: 
AP News coverage April 2026, AP News live updates
