President Donald Trump and Iran have exchanged fresh threats to strike key energy infrastructure, raising fears of a deeper crisis as the conflict in the Middle East escalates.
Trump warned that the United States could “obliterate” Iran’s power facilities if Tehran fails to fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours, marking a sharp escalation in rhetoric as the war enters its fourth week.
Iran, in response, said it would target U.S. assets and energy installations across the Gulf if Washington follows through on its threat.
Officials in Tehran also maintained that the strait remains open, but only to countries not considered hostile.
The standoff has heightened concerns over global energy supplies, as the narrow waterway accounts for roughly 20 percent of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.
Disruptions in the area have already driven oil prices to their highest levels in nearly four years.
Analysts warn the situation could trigger significant turbulence in global markets.
One market strategist described Trump’s ultimatum as a “ticking time bomb,” cautioning that failure to de-escalate could lead to a sharp sell-off in equities and further spikes in energy prices.
The conflict, which began after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February, has already claimed more than 2,000 lives and strained international alliances.
Attacks have spread across the region, with energy infrastructure in countries such as Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Qatar seen as potential targets.
Despite the tensions, some vessels have reportedly continued to navigate the strait under coordinated security arrangements, though overall shipping activity remains significantly reduced.
With military deployments increasing and both sides hardening their positions, fears are growing that the conflict could spiral into a broader regional confrontation with far-reaching economic consequences.
