President Donald Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran, warning the United States would target Iranian power plants if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. He posted the warning Saturday on Truth Social, stating that if Iran does not “fully open, without threat” the strategic waterway within 48 hours, the U.S. would “hit and obliterate” Iran’s power plants, beginning with the largest.
Escalation over Strategic Oil Passage
The Strait of Hormuz is a key global chokepoint for oil and gas transport, supplying about one-fifth of the world’s crude oil. Since early March, traffic through the strait has been severely restricted amid rising tensions following the outbreak of conflict involving Iran. Trump’s statement marks a significant escalation in U.S. rhetoric regarding the blockade.
Earlier this week, U.S. forces conducted strikes on Iranian anti-ship missile sites near the strait using 5,000-pound bunker-buster bombs, according to U.S. Central Command.
Calls for Allied Support to Reopen Strait
Trump criticized NATO for not assisting the U.S. in reopening the strait, describing allied countries as lacking “courage” to help escort commercial vessels through the passage. He called reopening the waterway a “simple military maneuver” that requires “ships” and “volume.”
More than 20 countries, including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates, issued a joint statement expressing readiness to support efforts to ensure safe passage through the strait. The statement condemned Iranian attacks on commercial vessels and oil infrastructure and called on Iran to cease actions blocking commercial shipping.
International Concern and U.S. Position
The joint statement referenced United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817 and urged Iran to halt threats, mining, drone and missile attacks targeting the Strait of Hormuz. Despite international concern, NATO heavyweights have reportedly hesitated to participate in a mission to secure the strait.
Trump’s ultimatum comes amid ongoing conflict in the region and signals potential military escalation if Iran does not comply with demands to reopen the vital maritime corridor.
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