Iran threatens to 'completely' shut Strait of Hormuz after Trump’s warning

Tensions in West Asia escalated further after Iran warned it would “completely” close the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz if the United States carries out threats to attack Iranian power plants. The warning follows a sharp ultimatum issued by US President Donald Trump amid the ongoing regional conflict.

The threat comes as the war, triggered by coordinated US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, moves into its fourth week, raising fears of further escalation near sensitive nuclear and energy facilities across the region.

According to a statement from Iran’s military command, Khatam Al-Anbiya, the vital maritime route will remain shut until Iran restores damaged energy infrastructure, as per News18.
“If the United States’ threats regarding Iran’s power plants are carried out… the Strait of Hormuz will be completely closed, and it will not be reopened until our destroyed power plants are rebuilt,” the command said in a statement carried by state television.

The statement marks one of Tehran’s strongest warnings since the conflict began, signalling that any attack on its electricity infrastructure could trigger a prolonged blockade of the narrow shipping passage connecting the Persian Gulf with global markets.

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Trump issues ultimatum as conflict widens

The warning from Tehran came after Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum, cautioning that Washington could “obliterate” Iran’s power facilities if the country does not reopen the shipping route.

Since the start of the conflict, Iran has launched missile and drone strikes against Israel and targets linked to the US in the region. Tehran has also warned that it could hit Israel’s energy and communications infrastructure, as well as facilities in neighbouring states hosting American bases.

The escalating standoff has intensified global concerns over energy supply disruptions and the potential widening of the conflict across West Asia.

Global energy route disrupted

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, with roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments normally passing through the narrow waterway.

However, maritime traffic has fallen sharply since the conflict began. Data from shipping analytics firm Kpler shows that only about 5% of the usual shipping volume has managed to transit the route, as per News18.

Also Read: Saudi Aramco boss pulls out of major international energy conference due to Iran conflict

Iranian forces have reportedly targeted several vessels that ignored warnings, while allowing some ships from what Tehran describes as “friendly countries” to pass. Iranian officials are also considering additional measures, including imposing tolls on commercial ships using the route.