Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Iran, threatening to launch attacks on critical civilian infrastructure—including power plants and bridges—if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened by his self-imposed Monday deadline.
In a strongly worded post on Truth Social, Trump said Tuesday would mark “Power Plant Day” and “Bridge Day” in Iran if shipping through the vital oil transit route is not restored. The strait has remained effectively shut since the escalation of hostilities following US and Israeli strikes on Iran beginning February 28.
Speaking to Fox News, Trump claimed that negotiations with Iran are ongoing and expressed optimism about a possible deal before the deadline, though he did not provide specifics.
Iran Condemns “War Crime” Threats
Iranian officials reacted sharply, condemning the threats as violations of international law. Iran’s mission to the United Nations warned that targeting infrastructure essential to civilian life could constitute war crimes and called on the global community to intervene.
Seyyed Mehdi Tabatabaei stated that the strait would only reopen after reparations are paid for damages caused by the conflict. He added that Iran is considering a new legal framework that could impose transit fees on vessels passing through the chokepoint even after the war.
Escalation Risks Grow
The crisis around the Strait of Hormuz—a key artery for global energy supplies—has heightened fears of broader regional escalation. US officials, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, have reiterated warnings of overwhelming military action if Iran fails to comply with US demands.
Reports indicate that previous US-Israeli strikes have already hit civilian-linked infrastructure such as schools, healthcare facilities, and bridges, raising concerns among experts about potential breaches of international humanitarian law.
Trump, however, dismissed concerns about civilian impact in comments to the The Wall Street Journal, stating he was not worried about the consequences of such strikes.
Conflict Timeline Unclear
Despite repeated assertions that a resolution may be near, Trump declined to provide a clear timeline for ending the conflict, saying only that developments would be announced “pretty soon.” A White House briefing is expected Monday.
Separately, Trump confirmed the rescue of a wounded crew member from a downed F-15E Strike Eagle shot down over Iran, describing the operation as successful.
