US President Trump warns Iran of potential destruction over strait blockade

March 22, 2026 • Al Jazeera

US President Trump warns Iran of potential destruction over strait blockade

US President Donald Trump has issued a warning to Iran, stating that he will take action against the country’s power plants if the Strait of Hormuz is not opened to all vessels within 48 hours.

According to reports, Trump made the statement in response to ongoing tensions between the US and Iran. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil supplies, has been closed by Iran since January 4, citing concerns over US military presence in the region.

The US has maintained that it will not be intimidated by Iranian actions and is seeking to resolve the situation through diplomatic means. Trump’s statement appears to be an attempt to pressure Iran into reopening the strait, which is a critical passage for oil exports from the Middle East.

Iranian officials have rejected the US demands, stating that they will not be coerced into opening the strait until their concerns are addressed. The situation remains tense, with both sides maintaining a hardline stance.

The warning from Trump comes as domestic energy prices in the US continue to rise due to the ongoing conflict between the two countries. The crisis has sparked concern among policymakers and industry leaders, who are seeking a swift resolution to alleviate pressure on consumers.

Source: Al Jazeera