Iran war live: Trump says Tehran wants end to blockade; Israel kills medics

As of April 29, 2026, the ongoing conflict involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran has reached a critical stage marked by a tightening naval blockade and deadly strikes on humanitarian workers.

Trump's Claims on the Iran Blockade

U.S. President Donald Trump claimed on April 28, 2026, that Iran is in a "state of collapse". According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, Trump stated that Tehran has reached out to Washington requesting an immediate end to the U.S. naval blockade on its ports.

• Extended Blockade: Despite these claims, Trump has instructed aides to prepare for an extended blockade. He reportedly views this as a low-risk way to maintain pressure compared to resuming active bombing or exiting the conflict.
• Leverage in Talks: U.S. officials, as reported by CNN, suggest that lifting the blockade now—while Iran's economy is "demonstrably crushing"—would remove key American leverage in negotiations.
• The "Collapse" Assertion: Trump claimed Iran requested the opening of the Strait of Hormuz while it attempts to "figure out their leadership situation" following the start of the war on February 28.

Israeli Strikes on Medics in Lebanon

Lebanon's Prime Minister has accused Israel of "war crimes" following a series of deadly attacks on emergency responders in southern Lebanon. [8, 9]

• Majdal Zoun Attack: On April 28, 2026, a "double" or "triple-tap" Israeli strike in the town of Majdal Zoun killed five people, including three rescue workers. According to reports from Al Jazeera, the medics were targeted while attempting to help survivors of an initial strike.
• Army Patrol Targeted: The Lebanese army and Civil Defence confirmed that the strike hit an army patrol that was accompanying medical teams and bulldozers during a rescue operation.
• Rising Casualty Toll: The Lebanese Health Ministry reports that since the escalation on March 2, at least 91 health professionals have been killed and 208 wounded in more than 120 attacks on ambulances and medical facilities.
• Israeli Defense: Israel has frequently accused Hezbollah of using medical vehicles for military purposes, though Lebanese authorities and international agencies like Amnesty International emphasize that healthcare workers do not lose their protected status under international law.