Trump Issues Ultimatum as Strait of Hormuz Remains Closed, Threatening Iranian Power Plants

The effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz – entering its fourth week as conflict in the region deepens – is piling pressure on the US administration and on major importers of oil, gas and fuels from the Persian Gulf, prompting them to scramble for solutions. President Donald Trump on Saturday issued a 48-hour ultimatum for traffic to resume and threatened to strike Iran’s power plants. The comments mark a dramatic escalation and reflect growing frustration in the White House with the struggle to restore traffic through the narrow waterway and to damp rising oil prices.

Trump’s 48-Hour Ultimatum

President Trump, accompanied by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, announced the ultimatum on Saturday, stating the US would “hit and obliterate” Iranian power plants – “starting with the biggest one first” – if Tehran does not fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours, or by 23:44 GMT on Monday . This threat came as Iran launched what has been described as its most destructive attack yet on Israel .

The ultimatum follows a period where Trump had indicated consideration of “winding down” military operations after three weeks of conflict . However, with the key oil passage remaining effectively closed and thousands of US Marines being deployed to the Middle East, the administration has taken a more aggressive stance.

Iran’s Response and Restrictions

Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, has stated that restrictions are only imposed on vessels from countries involved in attacks against Iran and that other vessels will be assisted if they remain neutral . In response to Trump’s threat, the Iranian army announced it would target energy and desalination infrastructure “belonging to the US and the regime in the region” .

Strategic Considerations: Kharg Island

The Trump administration has also reportedly been considering plans to occupy or blockade Iran’s Kharg Island, a key hub for oil exports, to further pressure Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz .

Impact on Global Oil Markets and Shipping

Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil and gas supplies – handling approximately a fifth of the world’s oil and gas during peacetime – has virtually ground to a halt since the beginning of the conflict . This has led to soaring oil prices and declining stock markets, increasing pressure on the US to find a resolution.

Recent Damage from Iranian Attacks

New images show damage in the Israeli cities of Dimona and Arad following the recent Iranian missile strike. A strike in Arad badly damaged several buildings, while Dimona experienced a similar strike near the Negev Nuclear Research Center. Several people were injured in both cities .