Junior doctors in England have announced a six-day strike from 7 to 13 April, escalating an ongoing dispute with the Government over pay and working conditions. The British Medical Association (BMA), representing resident doctors, is calling for a 26% pay rise, arguing that current proposals fail to address years of real-term pay erosion. This will be the fifteenth round of industrial action in three years and one of the longest to date. The Government has pointed to a recommended 3.5% pay increase from the independent review body, but union leaders say this falls far short of restoring fair pay, especially amid rising inflation and increasing numbers of doctors leaving the UK. Negotiations had shown signs of progress, but talks have since stalled, with both sides holding firm positions. Healthcare leaders have expressed concern about the impact on patients and are urging renewed dialogue, potentially with external mediation. With tensions high and no immediate resolution in sight, the NHS faces further disruption during a critical period.