President Donald Trump has made a very stern warning to the Tehran capital that he will destroy all the major power plants in Iran unless the Strait of Hormuz is opened to all ships within 48 hours.
The theatrical threat is a sharp upsurge in the three-week-old war between the United States, Israel and Iran. Trump said it would impose the targeted strikes, starting with the biggest plants, to cripple the energy infrastructure of Iran in case it does not comply further.
War Escalates in Various Fronts
This tension hit a new peak in Iran firing long-range ballistic missiles at the strategic US-UK base in Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean and hitting southern Israel, injuring over 100 civilians in Dimona and Arad. The attacks were said to have compromised Israeli air defences, and Tehran termed them as a way of responding to previous attacks on its nuclear facilities.
Iran has also increased its control over the Strait of Hormuz, a key chokepoint that transports about a fifth of the world’s oil trade. The relocation has already driven crude prices to record highs, threatening to wipe out energy supplies worldwide.
Global Stakes Rise
Analysts have cautioned that a long shutdown of the strait would cause an economic shock in the Middle East that is much larger than in the region. European and Asian major economies rely on free passage through these waters.
The warning from Trump is issued when Iran is not ready to accept a temporary ceasefire but wants permanent commitments to cease hostilities. As allies of NATO feel pressure to assist with maritime security, the world is on the verge of further conflict.
Diplomatic talks remain tense, and markets are preparing for further volatility as the 48-hour deadline approaches.