Trump Issues 48-Hour Ultimatum to Iran Over Strait of Hormuz
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – U.S. President Donald Trump has given Iran a 48-hour ultimatum to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, threatening to “hit and obliterate” Iranian power plants if the vital waterway remains closed. The escalating rhetoric comes amid heightened tensions in the region and follows recent Iranian-linked attacks on civilian infrastructure in several countries.
Trump’s demand, delivered via a post on Truth Social, stated the U.S. would target “the biggest one first” of Iran’s power plants should the Strait not be fully opened “without threat” within the allotted timeframe.
The move prompted an immediate response from Iran. A spokesperson for the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters (KACHQ), Iran’s highest-level military command, warned that any attack on Iranian fuel and energy infrastructure would be met with retaliatory strikes targeting similar facilities in the United States and the region. KACHQ is responsible for coordinating joint operations between Iran and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
The situation unfolded following statements from G7 foreign ministers condemning what they termed “reckless attacks” by Iran against civilian and energy infrastructure in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, and Iraq – actions aligned with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817.
The G7 ministers affirmed the importance of safeguarding maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, and ensuring the stability of global energy markets. They stated their readiness to “take necessary measures to support global supply of energy,” including potential releases from the International Energy Agency stockpile, as previously decided on March 11.
The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, is a critical chokepoint for global oil supply. Approximately 20% of the world’s oil passes through the strait daily, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Any disruption to traffic could have significant consequences for global energy prices and security.
The latest escalation builds on existing concerns regarding Iran’s regional activities and its nuclear program. The situation remains fluid and is being closely monitored by international observers.
