U.S. President Donald Trump has warned Iran that the United States could target its power plants if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened within 48 hours.
The warning comes after Iran launched missile strikes on Israel, injuring more than 100 people. The U.S. says the Strait of Hormuz is vital for global oil shipments, with nearly 20% of the world’s oil passing through the waterway.
Iran has responded that any attack on its infrastructure would prompt retaliation and could include closing the Strait of Hormuz entirely, which would disrupt global energy markets.
U.S. military assets have been deployed to the region, and officials are monitoring the situation closely. Analysts warn that the standoff could escalate into a wider conflict affecting the Middle East and international energy supplies.
The 48-hour deadline has heightened concerns of an imminent confrontation between the U.S. and Iran.