US escalates pressure on Iran with 48-hour ultimatum over Hormuz oil route
US President Donald Trump on Saturday warned Iran of possible strikes on its power infrastructure if Tehran does not reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions in the ongoing conflict.
In a post on X, Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran over the blockade affecting global energy shipments.
“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!” Trump said on social media.
Global energy concerns rise
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints, carrying nearly 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies. The threat of Iranian attacks in the waterway has already disrupted shipping traffic and triggered sharp increases in energy prices.
Last week, European gas prices surged by as much as 35% amid fears that the route could remain closed.
Iran warns of retaliation
Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters warned that any US strikes on Iran’s fuel or energy infrastructure would lead to retaliation against American assets across the region, including energy, technology and desalination facilities.
The warning came as the war entered its fourth week, with both sides intensifying military operations.
Regional strikes intensify
The conflict has also expanded beyond traditional battle zones. Iranian missiles struck southern Israeli cities including Dimona and Arad, injuring dozens of people.
Israel said it responded with fresh strikes in Tehran, as fighting continued across multiple fronts.
War enters dangerous phase
The confrontation began on February 28 following US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets. Since then, the conflict has disrupted energy markets, threatened global shipping routes and heightened fears of a broader regional war.
More than 2,000 people have reportedly been killed in the fighting so far, while Iranian missile attacks have killed at least 15 people in Israel.
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