President Donald Trump has issued warning ahead of a critical deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, saying “a whole civilization will die tonight” if tensions escalate further.
The warning comes as U.S. prepares for potential large-scale strikes on Iranian infrastructure if Tehran fails to comply by 8 p.m. Eastern Time.
In a series of statements, Trump threatened sweeping attacks targeting Iran’s power plants, bridges, and key infrastructure, describing a scenario in which vital national assets could be “decimated.”
The ultimatum is tied to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global shipping route that Iran has effectively restricted amid the ongoing conflict.
U.S. Vice-President JD Vance, speaking during a visit to Budapest, said Washington remained confident it could secure a response from Iran before the deadline, despite slow-moving negotiations.
Iran has dismissed a proposed 45-day ceasefire, insisting instead on a permanent end to hostilities.
Officials in Tehran have also warned that any further attacks could trigger retaliation beyond Iran’s borders, including strikes on infrastructure in Gulf countries allied with the United States.
Iranian authorities reported intensified airstrikes across the country, including hits on bridges, airports, petrochemical facilities, and energy infrastructure.
Explosions were also reported on Kharg Island, a key oil export hub.
In a show of defiance, President Masoud Pezeshkian called on civilians to form human chains around critical infrastructure, saying millions had volunteered to defend the country.
The conflict has already taken a heavy toll. Reports indicate that more than 1,900 people have been killed in Iran, alongside 1,400 in Lebanon and dozens more in Israel and other parts of the region.
Fresh strikes have also reportedly damaged civilian sites, including a synagogue in Tehran and residential buildings, raising concerns about the widening humanitarian impact.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that attacks on civilian infrastructure violate international law, urging restraint from all sides.
Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, with countries such as Pakistan acting as intermediaries.
However, negotiations remain fragile, with both sides maintaining hardline positions.
As the deadline approaches, the situation remains highly volatile.
Trump has framed the standoff as a potentially historic turning point, suggesting it could reshape Iran’s political future.
With military operations intensifying and diplomatic channels under strain, the coming hours are expected to be decisive for both the region and global energy security.
