US President Donald Trump demanded that Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours. He threatened to destroy Iranian power plants if the blockade continues. Tehran immediately responded by threatening to strike American infrastructure and desalination plants across the Middle East.
Donald Trump announced this decision on his Truth Social platform. The US President stated that the largest power station in the country would be the first target. This escalation follows Iran’s persistent refusal to allow free navigation in the strategic waterway.
“If Iran does not open the Strait of Hormuz totally, and without threat, within 48 hours from this moment, the United States of America will strike and destroy their various power plants, starting with the largest one!” the US President wrote.
Tehran’s Response and Regional Context
The Iranian leadership quickly countered the White House’s threats. According to the Wall Street Journal, the Iranian military plans to strike US energy and IT infrastructure in the region. Furthermore, they targeted desalination plants that provide drinking water to millions. The Middle East currently hosts over 40% of the world’s desalination capacity.
The crisis began when Iran blocked the Strait during the early stages of the full-scale war. This action triggered a global oil shortage and increased fuel prices in the United States. Consequently, Washington intensified efforts to restore maritime security. Admiral Brad Cooper recently reported that US forces destroyed Iranian radar posts used to track tankers. Now, a coalition of 22 nations has called for the immediate restoration of safe passage.
Alongside these threats, Trump is demanding trillions of dollars from Arab Gulf states for ongoing military support. Specifically, the options presented include paying $2.5 trillion to end the war or $5 trillion for continued military action. Meanwhile, Axios reports that the President’s team has already begun internal discussions regarding potential parameters for future peace negotiations with Tehran.
Previously, The Ukrainian Review reported that Iran attacked the US and UK Diego Garcia base with ballistic missiles.
