Washington: US President Donald Trump has threatened to launch strikes on Iran’s power plants if navigation through the Strait of Hormuz is not restored within 48 hours, marking a sharp escalation in the ongoing US-Israeli war with Iran.
In a late-night post on Truth Social, Trump warned that the United States would hit and obliterate Iran’s energy infrastructure, starting with its largest power facility, if Tehran fails to reopen the strategic waterway. The threat comes as global markets react to rising uncertainty, with oil prices surging and stocks declining.
Iran responded swiftly, warning that any attack on its energy infrastructure would trigger retaliation against US energy assets across the region. The standoff underscores the growing volatility surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial passage that handles roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas shipments during peacetime.
The escalation follows mixed signals from Washington. Just a day earlier, Trump suggested the US was nearing its military objectives and considering winding down operations launched alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on February 28, during a period of nuclear negotiations with Tehran.
Shipping traffic through the Strait has nearly halted since the conflict intensified. Iran maintains the route remains open to all except US and allied vessels, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicating that some international ships have been granted passage under military oversight.
Meanwhile, US Central Command claims recent airstrikes have significantly weakened Iran’s ability to target vessels. Admiral Brad Cooper stated that US forces destroyed key missile storage facilities, radar systems, and intelligence sites used to monitor maritime traffic.
However, analysts point to a disconnect between political messaging and military assessments, as Washington signals both de-escalation and potential intensification. The situation continues to evolve rapidly, with global energy security and regional stability hanging in the balance.
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