Agadir – US President Donald Trump has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran, threatening attacks on its electricity plants.
Trump urged Iran to ensure that freedom of navigation is fully restored at the Strait of Hormuz.
In a statement shared on his Truth Social platform, Trump declared: “If Iran doesn’t FULLY OPEN, WITHOUT THREAT, the Strait of Hormuz, within 48 HOURS from this exact point in time, the United States of America will hit and obliterate their various POWER PLANTS, STARTING WITH THE BIGGEST ONE FIRST.”
Trump did not specify what facility he was referring to when he called it the “biggest one.” The warning comes amid growing concerns over the closure of the vital maritime corridor, which Iran has stated will be kept closed to its enemies, resulting in volatility in the global energy market, with the price of oil rising and stocks falling.
This ultimatum followed Trump’s earlier statements indicating a possible de-escalation of the conflict. On Friday, the President said: “We are getting very close to meeting our objectives as we consider winding down our great Military efforts in the Middle East.”
“Completely degrading Iranian Missile Capability, Launchers, and everything else pertaining to them. Destroying Iran’s Defense Industrial Base. Eliminating their Navy and Air Force, including Anti Aircraft Weaponry. Never allowing Iran to get even close to Nuclear Capability, and always being in a position where the U.S.A. can quickly and powerfully react to such a situation, should it take place..” Trump stated.
Iran responded to the threats saying that the Iranian army would target the US energy infrastructure in the region if the Iranian energy facilities are attacked, following President Trump’s statement.
Meanwhile, Iran has continued to claim that the Strait of Hormuz is still open.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi claimed that the country had received requests from several nations for the safe passage of their vessels, noting that “we are ready to provide them with safe passage”.