Donald Trump has threatened to launch devastating attacks on Iran’s power infrastructure if Tehran fails to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The ultimatum came just a day after Trump suggested he might consider winding down military operations following weeks of fighting. However, with the crucial oil transit route still largely closed and additional U.S. Marines deployed to the region, the situation has intensified.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump warned that the United States would act within 48 hours if Iran does not fully reopen the Strait without conditions, stating that key power plants would be targeted.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, responded by saying restrictions had only been placed on vessels from countries involved in attacks against Iran, while others would be allowed safe passage.
In a further escalation, Iran’s military warned it would target U.S.-linked energy and desalination infrastructure in the region, according to reports by Fars News Agency.
The exchange of threats comes amid heightened hostilities between Iran and Israel. Two Iranian missiles struck southern Israel, injuring more than 100 people in one of the most severe attacks since the conflict began.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed strong retaliation, promising action “on all fronts.”
The strikes reportedly hit residential areas in Arad and Dimona, causing significant damage and multiple casualties. Dimona is widely believed to host a sensitive nuclear-related facility, although Israel has not officially confirmed this.
Iran described the attack as a response to earlier Israeli strikes on its Natanz nuclear facility, with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps stating that additional targets included southern Israeli towns and military sites in Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates.
In response, the Israeli military confirmed launching a new wave of strikes on Tehran, signaling a further escalation in the ongoing conflict.