WASHINGTON: U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran to reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, warning of severe consequences if the route remains blocked.

In a statement posted on his Truth Social platform, Trump said the waterway through which nearly 20% of global oil supply passes, “must be opened immediately,” calling its closure unacceptable for international trade.

He warned that failure to comply could trigger U.S. military action, including potential strikes on major Iranian power plants. Trump also made sweeping claims that U.S. forces had already neutralized key Iranian military capabilities, asserting that Iran’s leadership, navy, and air force had been “effectively destroyed.”

Iran swiftly responded, warning it would target U.S. energy infrastructure across the Middle East if attacked. Officials in Tehran said any strike on its facilities would provoke a broader regional confrontation.

The tensions come amid escalating hostilities involving Iran and Israel, including reported missile strikes on southern Israeli cities such as Dimona and Arad, causing casualties and infrastructure damage.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the situation as “a difficult moment” for his country.

With tensions rising and oil markets reacting sharply, the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz threatens global energy stability and raises fears of a wider regional conflict.