Trump Gives Iran 48-Hour Ultimatum to Reopen Hormuz as Tehran Hits Israel

Trump Gives Iran 48-Hour Ultimatum to Reopen Hormuz as Tehran Hits Israel

United States President Donald Trump has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran to reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz or face sweeping attacks on its energy infrastructure, in a sharp escalation of the ongoing Middle East conflict.

Trump warned that Washington would “hit and obliterate” Iranian power facilities if the waterway, which handles a significant share of global oil shipments, is not reopened by the stated deadline.

The threat came as the strait remained effectively shut, disrupting global energy supply and raising fears of a wider economic fallout.

The ultimatum followed a fresh wave of Iranian missile strikes on Israel, described as the most destructive since the conflict began weeks ago.

At least two missiles struck southern Israeli towns, injuring more than 100 people and causing widespread damage to residential buildings.

Emergency officials reported that 84 people were injured in Arad, with several in critical condition, while 33 others were wounded in Dimona, a town that hosts a sensitive nuclear-related facility. Images from the scene showed craters, shattered buildings and debris scattered across affected areas.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed a strong response, describing the attacks as a “very difficult evening” and promising retaliation “on all fronts.” Within hours, Israeli forces launched strikes targeting locations in Tehran.

Iran defended its actions, saying the strikes were in response to earlier attacks on its nuclear facilities, including the Natanz site. The country’s military also warned it would target energy and infrastructure linked to the United States and its allies in the region if hostilities continue.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz apply only to countries involved in military actions against Iran, adding that neutral states would be allowed safe passage.

The standoff has already had a significant impact on global oil markets. The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow but critical maritime route, typically carries about a fifth of the world’s crude oil supply. Its disruption has sent crude prices surging above $105 per barrel, intensifying concerns over inflation and economic stability worldwide.

The crisis has also drawn international condemnation, with a coalition of countries including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, South Korea, Australia, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain calling for the immediate reopening of the waterway and safe passage for vessels.

Meanwhile, military tensions continue to spread across the region. Iran reportedly attempted a long-range missile strike targeting a joint US-UK base in Diego Garcia, though the attack was unsuccessful. The United Arab Emirates also reported aerial threats following warnings from Tehran over its involvement in the conflict.

Despite sustained bombardment by US and Israeli forces over the past three weeks, analysts say Iran has continued to demonstrate resilience, maintaining its ability to launch missile and drone attacks across multiple fronts.

As the war enters its fourth week, concerns are growing over the risk of a broader regional conflict, particularly with threats to critical infrastructure and global energy routes showing no sign of easing.