Washington has issued a stark 48-hour ultimatum to Iran, demanding the immediate reopening of the 'Strait of Hormuz' to shipping. Failing compliance, US President Donald Trump has explicitly stated that American forces will "hit and obliterate" Iranian power plants, with a specific mention of targeting the "biggest one first." This escalation occurs amidst a continuing 'US-Israeli war' on Iran, now in its fourth week.
The core of the standoff lies in the disruption of maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global energy supplies. Iran, reportedly retaliating for an earlier strike on its 'Natanz nuclear facility' (a claim Israel denies), has pledged to keep the vital waterway closed to "enemy ships." This stance has already led to significant 'soaring oil prices' and 'plunging stock markets.'
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Iran, in response to the American threat, has warned of a counter-offensive. An Iranian military spokesperson, citing state media, stated that any attack on its energy facilities would trigger retaliation against US and Israeli energy and infrastructure. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) further cautioned that a US strike would result in the "complete closure of the vital shipping channel."
The situation has drawn condemnation from other nations. Australia and the United Arab Emirates, alongside 20 other countries, have formally objected to Iran's "partial blockade" of the Strait. Japan has indicated it may consider deploying its military for mine-clearing operations in the strait, contingent on a ceasefire.
Recent military exchanges are cited as the backdrop to this ultimatum. Late Saturday, Iran reportedly launched missile strikes on the southern Israeli towns of Dimona and Arad, near the 'Negev nuclear research centre.' In response, the Israeli military announced fresh airstrikes on Tehran early Sunday, targeting sites including those related to missile development. The United Arab Emirates also reported aerial attacks and the downing of numerous drones.
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President Trump's demand, articulated via his 'Truth Social' platform, emphasizes a desire for "fully open, without threat" passage through the Strait. He has previously expressed frustration with 'NATO allies' for not actively participating in securing the waterway, suggesting their inaction contributes directly to the elevated oil prices. The US President did not specify which power plant he intended to target first.
