On Sunday, former President Donald Trump took to his Truth Social account to deliver a fiery ultimatum to Iran, threatening to target the country's power plants and bridges if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened by Tuesday.
In his post, Trump declared, "Tuesday will be Power Plant and Bridge Day combined in Iran. There will be nothing like it! Open the damn Strait, you insane bastards, or you'll experience hell. JUST WAIT! Praise be to Allah. President DONALD J. TRUMP."
This warning follows a previous 48-hour ultimatum issued by Trump on the same platform: "Remember when I gave Iran ten days to MAKE A DEAL or OPEN THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ. Time is running out — 48 hours before all hell breaks loose. Glory to God!"
On Saturday, Trump confirmed a massive assault on Tehran and announced the elimination of numerous Iranian military leaders, sharing a nighttime video showcasing visible explosions.
The Strait of Hormuz: A Global Energy Lifeline
Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz on March 4 using mines, drones, and missiles, stranding approximately 2,000 ships with 20,000 sailors and driving oil prices above $115 per barrel. The strait is a crucial artery through which 20% of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas flow, making its blockade a global energy crisis.
Operation Epic Fury: A Joint Military Offensive
This recent threat is part of Operation Epic Fury, a joint military campaign by the United States and Israel against Iran, launched on February 28, 2026, after nuclear negotiations in Geneva failed. According to the Pentagon, the operation has significantly degraded or destroyed 90% of Iran's missile capabilities and 95% of its drones, attacking over 5,000 targets within Iranian territory.
Rescue Mission Success Amid Rising Tensions
On Sunday, Trump also confirmed the successful rescue of the second crew member of the F-15E Strike Eagle shot down by Iran last Friday — marking the first loss of a manned U.S. aircraft on Iranian soil since the conflict began. He described the rescue operation as one of the "boldest in the nation's history."
In response, Iran dismissed the ultimatums and responded with firm rhetoric. General Ali Abdollahi Aliabadi described Trump's threats as "impotent, nervous, unbalanced, and foolish actions" and warned that "the gates of hell will open for you."
Understanding the Implications of the Strait of Hormuz Crisis
Why is the Strait of Hormuz significant?
The Strait of Hormuz is crucial because it is a major transit route for 20% of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas. Its closure can lead to global energy shortages and increased oil prices.
What is Operation Epic Fury?
Operation Epic Fury is a joint military campaign by the United States and Israel aimed at targeting Iran's military capabilities, following the breakdown of nuclear negotiations in Geneva.
How did Iran respond to Trump's threats?
Iran dismissed Trump's threats, calling them impotent and foolish, and warned of dire consequences if provoked.