By Desmond Nleya, Daily Times Reporter
DUBAI: The conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran intensified sharply on April 7, 2026, marked by escalating threats, fresh strikes, and widening regional impact. Below is a clear, time-sequenced update of the day’s key developments.
09:53 AM – Authorities announced the temporary closure of the King Fahd Causeway, the critical bridge linking Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, following emergency alerts in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province. No official explanation has yet been provided.
09:31 AM – Overnight attacks struck a major petrochemical complex in Jubail, Saudi Arabia’s industrial hub. A fire broke out at facilities in Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC), with loud explosions reported.
08:52 AM – In the UAE, Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori, Chairman of Abu Dhabi’s Department of Health, visited injured patients at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, reviewing treatment efforts amid the regional escalation.
08:33 AM – Saudi Arabia confirmed that seven Iranian ballistic missiles targeted its Eastern Province. Missile debris fell energy facilities, with damage assessments ongoing.
08:01 AM – Iranian state media reported that Tehran has rejected a proposed ceasefire plan. According to Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), Iran insists on a definitive end to the conflict and demands sanctions relief, reconstruction, and secure navigation terms in the Strait of Hormuz.
07:59 AM – The United Nations Security Council is set to vote on a resolution addressing Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz. The draft calls for protecting freedom of navigation but stops short of authorizing military force.
07:51 AM – United States Central Command (CENTCOM) revealed that more than 13,000 Iranian targets have been struck since the start of the war. Over 155 Iranian vessels have reportedly been damaged or destroyed under “Operation Epic Fury.”
07:43 AM – Japan confirmed the release on bail of a detained citizen in Iran, believed to be a journalist linked to NHK. Diplomatic efforts for full release continue.
07:40 AM – Donald Trump hinted at a critical deadline in a White House message, stating: “Tomorrow, 8:00 PM Eastern Time,” raising speculation over a possible escalation window tied to the Strait of Hormuz.
07:38 AM – Global markets reacted nervously. Oil prices surged while stocks showed mixed performance following Trump’s warning that Iran could face “complete demolition” of its infrastructure if it fails to reopen the vital shipping route.
06:55 AM – The Philippines confirmed a second national killed in the conflict after an Iranian missile strike in Haifa, Israel. Civilian casualties continue to mount as the war spills into urban areas.
06:05 AM – The UAE Ministry of Defence confirmed that national air defence systems were actively intercepting incoming missiles and drones. Residents across parts of the country reported loud sounds linked to these interceptions and were urged to remain indoors.
05:36 AM – The Israeli military announced a new “wave” of airstrikes targeting sites داخل إيران, following stalled ceasefire efforts and continued hostilities.
Strategic Overview
The 39th day of the war reflects a dangerous expansion beyond Iran and Israel, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE directly impacted. The potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz continues to threaten global energy supplies, while diplomatic efforts at the United Nations remain constrained.
At the center of the escalation, President Donald Trump has issued stark warnings of rapid and واسع destruction, signaling that the coming hours could prove decisive in shaping the next phase of the conflict.
