Washington / Tehran: Tensions between the United States and Iran have sharply escalated after U.S. President Donald J. Trump issued a strong warning demanding that Iran fully reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours or face severe military consequences.
In a statement circulating on social media, President Trump warned that if Iran does not comply “fully” and “without threat,” the United States would launch strikes targeting Iran’s energy infrastructure.
He specifically threatened to “hit and obliterate” Iranian power plants, starting with the largest facility.
The remarks have sparked significant backlash within the United States.
Congresswoman Yassamin Ansari criticized the shift in tone, contrasting earlier rhetoric about supporting Iranian protesters with what she described as threats that could amount to war crimes against civilians.
Similarly, Congressman Don Beyer raised concerns about the president’s leadership, warning that his “increasingly erratic behavior” poses a growing threat not only to Americans but to global stability.
He emphasized the importance of openly addressing what he described as a dangerous pattern of instability.Iran responded swiftly and firmly to the threats.
A spokesperson for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters stated that any attack on the country’s fuel and energy infrastructure would trigger a broad retaliatory response.
According to the statement, Iran would target energy facilities, information technology systems, and desalination plants linked to the United States and its regional allies.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes, with a significant portion of global oil shipments passing through the narrow waterway.
Any disruption in the strait could have far-reaching consequences for global energy markets and regional security.
The latest exchange of threats underscores growing instability in the Middle East, as rhetoric intensifies between Washington and Tehran.
Analysts warn that continued escalation could push the region closer to direct confrontation, with potentially severe global implications.
Further developments are expected as diplomatic and military responses unfold in the coming hours.