The ongoing confrontation surrounding the Strait of Hormuz has intensified after Iran effectively restricted movement through the strategic waterway, leading to sharp warnings from the United States and several Gulf nations. Both sides are now issuing threats targeting oil and energy infrastructure across the Middle East, raising fears of wider regional conflict.
The President of the United States, Donald Trump, warned that Iran could face severe destruction of its energy facilities if the passage is not reopened within a period of 48 hours. According to the statement, Washington is prepared to take decisive action should Tehran fail to comply with the demand to restore full navigation through the channel.
Iran responded immediately, declaring that any attack on its power stations would result in direct retaliation against energy-related installations connected to the United States throughout the Middle East. Officials in Tehran said the response would be permanent and irreversible if such actions were taken.
The deadline issued by Washington is set to expire today, increasing tension across global markets and military circles.
The warning from the U.S. president came shortly after Iranian missile strikes hit towns in southern Israel, including Arad and Dimona. Reports confirmed that more than 160 people were injured, making it one of the most damaging incidents since the conflict began. Following the attack, Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, stated that the country would respond on every possible front.
Iran had earlier restricted access to the Strait of Hormuz, a water route responsible for transporting nearly one-fifth of the world’s crude oil during normal conditions. Analysts say the move represents one of Iran’s strongest bargaining tools in the ongoing confrontation.
The crisis has already pushed global oil prices higher, with Brent crude rising above 105 dollars per barrel. Experts warn that continued disruption in the region could have long-term consequences for the world economy, especially for countries dependent on imported fuel.
The ultimatum from Washington also came at a time when earlier statements suggested the United States might reduce military operations after weeks of conflict. Instead, the latest developments show increased military deployment, with additional American forces being sent to the Middle East.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, said that restrictions in the Strait were only applied to ships belonging to countries involved in attacks against Iran. He added that vessels from neutral countries would receive assistance and safe passage.
Supporting the president’s position, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that escalation might be necessary in order to bring the war to an end. He explained that increasing pressure could sometimes be required before a reduction in hostilities becomes possible, adding that strong action is the only language Tehran understands.
Iran Warns of Attacks on U.S.-Linked Energy Facilities
Iranian military officials announced that energy and desalination plants connected to the United States and its regional partners could become targets if Iran’s infrastructure is damaged. According to reports from Iranian media, the country is prepared to respond quickly if its power plants are attacked.
The Speaker of Iran’s parliament, Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf, stated that important oil and energy installations across the region would be considered legitimate targets if Iran suffers damage to its own facilities. He warned that such actions could keep oil prices high for a long time and create lasting economic consequences.
The intelligence division of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard also issued a statement suggesting that potential responses may not be limited to the Middle East alone. Officials said they have prepared a list of technological and political targets that could be struck within a short period if threats continue.
Iran’s military command further warned that the Strait could be completely closed if the United States attacks Iranian power stations. According to the announcement, the waterway would remain shut until any destroyed facilities inside Iran are rebuilt.
Officials also threatened possible strikes on Israeli power stations, communication networks, and energy facilities, along with infrastructure located in countries that host U.S. bases or companies connected to American investors.
The military described these actions as necessary steps to protect the country and defend national interests.
Iran Imposes Heavy Fees on Ships Crossing Strait of Hormuz
An Iranian member of parliament, Alaeddin Boroujerdi, said that some ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz are being required to pay a fee of about two million dollars. He explained that the new rule reflects the cost of war and shows Iran’s authority over the strategic route.
According to his statement, the new policy demonstrates the power the Islamic Republic holds over the waterway, especially during times of conflict.
Meanwhile, Iran launched missile attacks on Israeli towns after strikes were carried out against the Natanz nuclear facility. The attacks on Arad and Dimona caused injuries to more than 160 people and resulted in serious damage to residential buildings and surrounding areas.
Emergency responders reported dozens of casualties, including several people in critical condition. Images from the scene showed large craters and destroyed structures caused by the impact of the missiles.
Dimona is known for hosting a sensitive facility widely believed to be connected to Israel’s nuclear capability, although the country has never officially confirmed possessing nuclear weapons.
Iran said the strike was carried out in response to damage caused to its Natanz nuclear site, where underground centrifuges are used for uranium enrichment. The facility had already been affected during previous fighting.
The United Nations nuclear agency urged all sides to avoid further escalation, warning that attacks on nuclear sites increase the risk of serious accidents.
Israel denied responsibility for the Natanz strike but confirmed that it had targeted a research location in Tehran that it claimed was linked to missile and weapons development.
WHO Warns of Global Health Risk From Nuclear Site Attacks
The Director-General of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, said the conflict has entered a dangerous phase as both sides continue to strike locations connected to nuclear activity.
He explained that any damage to such facilities could create serious risks for public health and the environment. According to him, international experts are monitoring the situation closely to ensure that radiation levels remain safe.
He also said that emergency training has been provided to United Nations personnel and health workers in multiple countries in case a nuclear-related incident occurs.
The WHO chief called on all parties involved in the conflict to show maximum restraint and avoid actions that could lead to a nuclear disaster.
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