Iran Threatens Full Closure of Strait of Hormuz Amid US Ultimatum

Iran Threatens Full Closure of Strait of Hormuz Amid US Ultimatum 

Tensions in the Middle East escalated over the weekend as Iran warned it could completely close the strategic Strait of Hormuz if Donald Trump carries out his threat to bomb Iranian power plants.

The warning came a day after Trump issued an ultimatum on social media, declaring that the United States would “hit and obliterate” Iranian energy facilities; “starting with the biggest one first” if the strait, a vital artery for global oil shipments, was not reopened to international shipping within 48 hours.

Trump’s statement followed comments suggesting he was considering a reduction of US military operations after three weeks of conflict, even as thousands of additional American troops were deployed to the region.

In response, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a statement declaring that any attack on Iran’s energy infrastructure would trigger a full closure of the strait.

“Power plants of regional countries hosting US bases will be legitimate targets for us,” the IRGC added, emphasizing that companies with US ownership could face “complete destruction.”

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian clarified on Sunday that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to all ships, “except those who violate our soil.”

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi explained that Tehran has only restricted passage for vessels from nations actively participating in attacks against Iran, while facilitating safe transit for others.

Reports indicate that Indian-flagged vessels have successfully navigated the strait amid the ongoing tensions, highlighting the delicate balance for shipping companies operating in the region.

Analysts warn that any escalation could disrupt a fifth of the world’s oil supply that passes through the strait, sending crude prices soaring and raising global economic concerns.

The standoff underscores the strategic importance of the waterway and the high stakes for both Iran and the United States in the ongoing crisis.