Donald Trump threatens total decimation of Iran and demands reopening of Strait of Hormuz as oil prices soar towards record highs

Donald Trump escalated tensions in the Middle East on Saturday by issuing a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran, demanding that Tehran reopen the Strait of Hormuz without threats to shipping.

The U.S. president warned that failure to comply would result in “obliteration” of Iranian power plants, starting with the largest facility.

Trump doubled down in an interview with Israeli channel N13, declaring the move would lead to the “total decimation of Iran” and insisting that “it’s gonna work out very good.”

He framed the action as retribution for decades of adversarial behavior, saying, “They’ve been very bad for 47 years. Now they’re getting their comeuppance.”

Iran Rejects Ultimatum and Threatens Regional Strikes

Iran responded forcefully, rejecting the ultimatum and threatening widespread retaliation.

A spokesman for the Iranian armed forces declared that if the U.S. targeted Iranian power plants, energy infrastructure across the region would be “irreversibly destroyed.”

Tehran also warned that the Strait of Hormuz could be “completely closed” and hinted at potential attacks on Israeli nuclear sites.

President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized Iran’s resilience, saying, “The illusion of erasing Iran from the map shows desperation against the will of a history-making nation. Threats and terror only strengthen our unity.”

Recent Escalation in Violence

The conflict intensified after Iranian missiles struck towns near the Dimona nuclear facility in southern Israel, injuring more than 160 people, including 70 children.

The strikes appeared to be retaliation for a reported Israeli strike on Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility.

Since the war began, Israel reports that Iran has launched over 400 ballistic missiles, with approximately 92% intercepted.

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In response, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited affected areas, vowing to target the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and their leadership, infrastructure, and economic assets.

Israeli military officials said operations against Iran will continue for at least three more weeks.

Global Energy Markets Surge

Iran’s firm stance over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping lane carrying 20% of global oil, has sent oil prices skyrocketing.

Markets have reacted sharply, with prices rising 50% to over $100 per barrel, fueling concerns of a potential global recession if the crisis continues.

U.S. Military Mobilization

Washington is reportedly moving thousands of Marines into the region and considering a possible invasion of Kharg Island, a strategic point through which Iran exports 90% of its crude oil.

The U.S. hopes to secure the area to pressure Iran into reopening the Strait.

Iran, however, has warned that any such action would provoke “an unprecedented response,” with the potential to devastate regional energy infrastructure.

Impact and Consequences

The escalating standoff threatens to destabilize global oil markets and spark a wider conflict in the Middle East.

Oil price surges could disrupt economies worldwide, while continued missile strikes risk civilian casualties and further regional instability.

The situation is already drawing warnings from international organizations: WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called for restraint, emphasizing the need to avoid actions that could trigger nuclear incidents.

What’s Next?

The next 48 hours are critical.

Analysts will be watching Tehran’s response to the U.S. ultimatum and whether Washington moves forward with military options.

Regional allies, including Israel and Gulf nations, are likely to remain on high alert, with the potential for rapid escalation if either side acts aggressively.

Summary

The U.S.-Iran standoff has reached a dangerous new phase.

Trump has issued a strict deadline for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran has threatened severe retaliation.

Oil prices are surging, the region remains volatile, and the risk of a wider military conflict is growing.

Bulleted Takeaways

• Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran over the Strait of Hormuz.
• Iran rejected the demands, threatening regional strikes and closure of the Strait.
• Iranian missiles injured over 160 people in Israel, including 70 children.
• Oil prices surged 50% to over $100 per barrel amid fears of global recession.
• The U.S. is deploying thousands of Marines and considering strategic strikes.
• Israel vows continued operations against Iran for at least three more weeks.
• WHO urges maximum restraint to avoid nuclear escalation.