Payam Javan: U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stark ultimatum to Iran, threatening military strikes against its energy infrastructure if Tehran fails to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and halt attacks on international shipping within 48 hours. In a post on Truth Social, Trump warned that the United States would target and “obliterate” Iranian power plants, beginning with the largest, if the demands are not met.

The warning comes amid escalating tensions following joint U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets in recent weeks. In response, Iranian forces have launched retaliatory attacks, including operations targeting commercial vessels in the Persian Gulf and the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global energy supplies.

These disruptions have significantly impacted international shipping, causing delays and raising concerns across global markets. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoints, and ongoing instability has pushed oil prices to hover around $100 per barrel. Iranian officials have warned that prices could surge to $200 if hostilities continue.

Trump has continued to signal a willingness to escalate further. In a separate statement earlier this week, he denied prior knowledge of an Israeli strike on the South Pars Gas Field but warned of massive U.S. retaliation if Iran targets Qatar. At the same time, he has sought to reassure markets and build international support to maintain secure maritime routes.

Efforts to stabilize the situation have included forming a multinational coalition to protect shipping in the region, with 22 countries pledging support. Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has called for an immediate halt to U.S. and Israeli actions, stating that broader de-escalation across the Middle East depends on ending what he described as ongoing aggression and preventing future conflicts.