U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning to Iran, threatening large-scale military action if the country fails to reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz within a set deadline.
Speaking during a press briefing, Trump adopted an aggressive tone, suggesting that key Iranian infrastructure including bridges and power plants could be targeted if Tehran refuses to comply. He claimed the United States possesses the capability to inflict overwhelming damage within a very short time, even going as far as saying Iran could be “taken out in one night.”
The U.S. president set a firm deadline of 8 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, April 7, warning that failure to meet the demand would trigger immediate and severe consequences. His remarks underscore escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran, with both sides showing little sign of backing down.
Trump also asserted that Iran had already suffered significant military setbacks, adding that the United States could potentially assume control of the Strait of Hormuz one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes and even impose tolls on vessels passing through it. The waterway is responsible for a substantial share of global crude oil shipments, making any disruption a major concern for international markets.
The ultimatum follows Iran’s rejection of a proposed ceasefire arrangement reportedly dubbed the Islamabad Accords. The plan included a 45-day cessation of hostilities, immediate reopening of the strait, and a short negotiation window aimed at addressing sanctions and nuclear-related issues.
Iranian officials, including Abbas Araqchi, dismissed the proposal, insisting that only a permanent resolution backed by firm guarantees against future attacks would be acceptable. They accused the United States of attempting to force temporary concessions under pressure.
In response to Trump’s threats, Iran’s military leadership issued a stern warning, stating that any further attacks, particularly those targeting civilian infrastructure, would provoke “devastating and widespread” retaliation across the Middle East.
The situation has grown increasingly volatile, with reports of ongoing military activity on both sides. Airstrikes have reportedly struck areas in Tehran, while Iran is said to have launched missiles targeting regional positions linked to U.S. and allied interests. Israel has also been drawn into the conflict, carrying out strikes on Iranian facilities, including energy infrastructure.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to defuse the crisis continue behind the scenes. Key figures such as U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir are reportedly involved in negotiations aimed at brokering a ceasefire.
Despite these efforts, both Washington and Tehran appear entrenched in their positions. Trump has warned that time is “running out” for Iran, while Iranian leaders maintain they will not negotiate under threats or coercion.
At the heart of the standoff remains the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow but crucial maritime corridor whose stability is essential to global energy supply. Any prolonged disruption could have far-reaching economic and geopolitical consequences, heightening concerns across international markets and among world powers.
