DONALD Trump has issued Iran with a 48-hour ultimatum to “fully open” the Strait of Hormuz – unless it wants its power plants “obliterated”.
The US President appears to have switched his position on the Iran war, a day after talking about “winding it down”.
President Donald Trump speaks with reporters before departing on Marine One from the South Lawn of the White House, Wednesday, March 11, 2026Credit: AP
In a post on Truth Social, he said: “If Iran doesn’t FULLY OPEN, WITHOUT THREAT, the Strait of Hormuz, within 48 HOURS from this exact point in time, the United States of America will hit and obliterate their various POWER PLANTS, STARTING WITH THE BIGGEST ONE FIRST!”
Trump and his administration have sent mixed messages about US goals throughout the war, now entering its fourth week.
He has suggested that the attacks “could wind down as the Iranian threat was being eliminated,” while at the same time US Marines head to the region.
Earlier today, the leader said the US was close to meeting its goals – but insisted that other countries should take the lead in policing the shipping lane.
“We are getting very close to meeting our objectives as we consider winding down our great Military efforts in the Middle East with respect to the Terrorist Regime of Iran,” Trump said on Truth Social.
“The Hormuz Strait will have to be guarded and policed, as necessary, by other Nations who use it. The United States does not!” he added.
“If asked, we will help these Countries in their Hormuz efforts, but it shouldn’t be necessary once Iran’s threat is eradicated.”
Iran has effectively blocked access to the strait – the world’s most strategic oil passageway – in response to US and Israeli attacks, threatening a global energy shock.
His threat landed as the conflict entered dangerous new territory – a tit-for-tat scenario between Israel and Iran, who unleashed missiles at each other’s nuclear sites earlier today.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
