Donald Trump has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, warning of military action against the country’s energy infrastructure.
The deadline is now approaching, increasing pressure on global shipping and energy markets.
Trump said the United States would “hit and obliterate” Iran’s power plants, starting with the largest, if the strait is not fully reopened without threats.
Iran responded with its own warning. Military officials said any strike on its energy facilities would trigger attacks on US-linked infrastructure across the region.
At the same time, Seyed Ali Mousavi, Iran’s representative to the International Maritime Organization, signalled selective access to the waterway. He said navigation would remain open for “everyone except enemies,” indicating Tehran may control which vessels can pass.
The crisis has already disrupted shipping flows. Traffic through the strait has nearly stopped, affecting one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes. The passage normally carries around 20% of global oil trade.
Iran has reportedly allowed some vessels, including shipments to Asia, to continue transiting.
The escalation comes amid intensifying conflict in the region. Israel and the United States are expected to increase military operations, while Iran has launched missile strikes causing significant damage and casualties.
The situation has pushed oil prices sharply higher, with Brent crude trading above $105 per barrel.
The standoff has raised concerns across the maritime sector. Industry players are closely monitoring developments as the ultimatum deadline approaches and the risk to global supply chains grows.
UPDATE
Donald Trump has postponed planned military strikes on Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for five days. The announcement follows “good and productive conversations” with Tehran.
Trump wrote on Truth Social that the United States and Iran have engaged in discussions aimed at a “complete and total resolution” of hostilities in the Middle East. He instructed the Department of War to delay any attacks for five days, pending the outcome of ongoing talks.
