Iran faces potential destruction due to looming US sanctions deadline

US President Donald Trump has announced that daily life for over 90 million Iranians could change significantly if Tehran fails to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by Wednesday’s deadline. The US president stated that Iran’s electricity, bridges, and other critical infrastructure would be targeted if the waterway is not opened.

The deadline expires at 8pm US Eastern Time (23:00 GMT). Iranian residents are preparing for potential attacks, with some stocking up on essentials such as bread, flour, and bottled water. Power outages could lead to difficulties for those relying on medical equipment or refrigeration for essential medicines.

Prices for electrical devices have increased significantly, with generators becoming more expensive due to the war’s impact on imports. A resident in Gilan province purchased a 25-litre electricity generator to power a hotel-apartment run by their family. However, they reported that the device was costly and hard to find.

Long queues were observed at petrol stations in Tehran and other cities on Tuesday night, following Israeli strikes on bridges and railway networks. Some Iranians have relocated to other cities or second homes due to the ongoing conflict.

The US-Israeli strike on April 2 killed at least 13 people and wounded over 90 others in Karaj city. A journalist based in Karaj reported that residents are buying essential items, including candles and water storage containers, as prices tripled.

Source: Al Jazeera