Iran war: What is happening on day 44 of the US-Iran conflict?
On day 44 of the US-Iran conflict, which began on February 28, 2026, peace talks in Islamabad collapsed after 21 hours of negotiations. US Vice President J.D. Vance announced the failure, blaming Iran’s refusal to accept terms limiting its nuclear and missile programs, while Iran cited excessive US demands.
A fragile ceasefire from earlier in the week is now at risk, with both sides accusing each other and global oil prices remaining volatile due to tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. US naval destroyers, including USS Frank Peterson and USS Michael Murphy, began mine-clearing operations without full Iranian cooperation.
The conflict involves US and Israeli strikes on Iran, which responded with missiles and drones, leading to thousands of deaths and regional escalation. President Trump has kept US troops positioned nearby, insisting on a “real agreement,” while prior Iranian proposals softened some demands but failed to bridge gaps.
