Trump Issues Ultimatum to Iran Over Strait of Hormuz as War Escalates
WASHINGTON – U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Iran on Saturday, threatening to “hit and obliterate” Iranian power plants if Tehran does not fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours. The ultimatum marks a significant escalation in tensions as the conflict between the U.S. And Iran enters its fourth week.
Trump’s Threat and NATO’s Refusal
In a post on Truth Social, President Trump stated, “If Iran doesn’t FULLY OPEN, WITHOUT THREAT, the Strait of Hormuz, within 48 HOURS from this exact point in time, the United States of America will hit and obliterate their various POWER PLANTS, STARTING WITH THE BIGGEST ONE FIRST!”
This threat comes after Trump expressed disappointment with NATO’s decision not to assist the U.S. In securing the Strait of Hormuz. He reportedly told reporters on Friday that reopening the strait was a “simple military maneuver,” but lamented that NATO hadn’t shown the “courage” to aid. AP News reported on this exchange.
Escalating Conflict and Strikes on Nuclear Facilities
The situation has been further complicated by a series of strikes exchanged between Iran and Israel, targeting nuclear facilities. Iranian media reported that U.S.-Israeli forces attacked the Shahid Ahmadi-Roshan Natanz nuclear enrichment complex, though no radioactive leaks were detected. Israel denied responsibility for the attack on Natanz. The Al Jazeera live blog provides ongoing updates on these developments.
In retaliation, Iran struck two communities near Israel’s main nuclear research site in Dimona and Arad, injuring dozens of people. This marked the first time Israel’s nuclear research center had been directly targeted during the conflict.
Global Oil Prices and U.S. Response
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil transport supplying roughly one-fifth of the world’s crude oil, has sent global fuel prices soaring. Brent crude oil futures rose 3.26% to $112.19 a barrel on Friday, the highest close since July 2022. Fox News detailed the impact on oil prices.
In an attempt to ease prices, the Trump administration temporarily waived sanctions on the purchase of Iranian oil already in transit, potentially bringing 140 billion barrels of oil to global markets. Although, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized that this was a short-term authorization and would not allow new purchases or production.
International Reactions and Concerns
The Group of Seven (G7) countries have expressed their readiness to take necessary measures to support global energy supplies and safeguard maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz. Saudi Arabia has expelled several Iranian diplomats and downed 20 Iranian drones, demonstrating growing regional concern. The United Arab Emirates also reported intercepting ballistic missiles and drones.
Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian called for an “immediate cessation” of U.S.-Israeli aggression to complete the war and wider regional conflict, according to the Iranian embassy in India.
U.K. Support and Iranian Missile Capabilities
The United Kingdom has authorized U.S. Forces to use British bases, including RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia, for defensive operations related to the conflict. Iran reportedly targeted Diego Garcia with an intercontinental ballistic missile, demonstrating a capability to reach European capitals. The New York Post covered these developments.
The conflict began on February 28 with U.S. And Israeli airstrikes against Iranian targets, and the death toll continues to rise across multiple countries in the region.