Trump ordered the Islamic Republic to fully reopen the strait or face the destruction of its energy infrastructure.
By Kehinde Okeowo
United States President Donald Trump has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to shipping, after the Islamic Republic launched its most destructive attack yet on Israel.
He issued the warning recently in a now-trending post shared on his official Truth Social page.
The ultimatum came barely 24 hours after Trump stated that he was considering ‘winding down’ military operations following three weeks of war.
Since 28 February, following US and Israeli strikes, Iran has effectively closed the strait in retaliation. Around a fifth of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas passes through the waterway; the closure has caused fuel prices to spike worldwide, threatening inflation and prompting countries to seek alternative routes.
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Writing via his verified handle, Trump ordered Iran to fully reopen the strait within 48 hours or face the destruction of its energy infrastructure.
“If Iran doesn’t FULLY OPEN, WITHOUT THREAT, the Strait of Hormuz, within 48 HOURS… the United States of America will hit and obliterate their various POWER PLANTS, STARTING WITH THE BIGGEST ONE FIRST!” he posted.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, said Tehran had imposed restrictions only on vessels from countries involved in attacks against Iran, and would assist others that stayed out of the conflict.
According to the Fars news agency, in response to Trump’s threat, Iran’s army stated it will target energy and other infrastructure belonging to the US and “the regime” in the region.
