President Donald Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran, demanding the country fully reopen the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz. In a post on Truth Social, Trump warned that if Iran does not comply, the United States will target its energy infrastructure, stating, “the United States of America will hit and obliterate their various POWER PLANTS, STARTING WITH THE BIGGEST ONE FIRST!”
The Strait of Hormuz is crucial for global oil transport, accounting for approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil supply during peacetime. Recent Iranian military actions, including attacks on commercial vessels and the laying of naval mines, have significantly restricted traffic through the strait since early March, leading to rising oil prices amid fears of continued instability in the region.
In his remarks, Trump suggested that reopening the strait would not be overly complicated from a military perspective, although it would necessitate coordination. He also criticized NATO allies for their lack of action, labeling them as “cowards.” Despite his criticisms, a coalition of over 20 countries, including the UK, France, and Japan, condemned Iran's actions and expressed readiness to contribute to ensuring safe passage through the waterway.
The situation escalated recently, with U.S. forces conducting strikes on Iranian missile sites near the strait, utilizing bunker-buster bombs to target threats to maritime traffic. Iranian officials have rebuffed U.S. demands, while also threatening to target U.S.-aligned energy infrastructure in response to continued strikes.