Al Jazeera News Updates US ultimatum on Hormuz, Russia evacuates nuclear plant workers in Iran
Apr 5, 2026
A rapid rundown of tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, including an ultimatum and regional talks in Oman. Coverage of shifting shipping routes as vessels hug Iran’s coast. Report on Russia evacuating workers from the Bushehr nuclear plant after a nearby strike. Brief mention of a rescued US airman following an F-15E downing.
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Standoff Over Strait Of Hormuz
- The US set an ultimatum to reopen the Strait of Hormuz while Iran says it's closed to enemies but open to friends that coordinate with Tehran.
- Iran moved allowed ships closer to its coast, exempted Iraqi oil, and held talks with Oman to manage transit routes.
Iran Redirects Shipping Closer To Its Coast
- Iran tightened control of traffic, forcing permitted vessels to hug Iran's coast and delaying many ships on both sides of the strait.
- A Portuguese-flagged tanker with an Iraqi crew was allowed through after Iran exempted Iraqi oil from restrictions.
Russia Evacuates Workers From Bushehr Plant
- Russia evacuated nearly 200 workers from the partially Russian-built Bushehr (Bashir) nuclear plant after a nearby strike killed a guard and damaged a support building.
- The IAEA reported no radiation rise but expressed deep concern about the attack's implications for plant safety.