Trump gives Iran 48 hours to reopen Strait of Hormuz

March 22, 2026 / 9:27 AM

Sharjah 24 – AFP: US President Donald Trump gave Iran a 48-hour deadline to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to shipping, warning that failure to comply would result in the destruction of Iranian power plants.

Threat to Iran’s energy infrastructure

Trump posted on Truth Social: “If Iran doesn't FULLY OPEN, WITHOUT THREAT, the Strait of Hormuz, within 48 HOURS… the United States of America will hit and obliterate their various POWER PLANTS, STARTING WITH THE BIGGEST ONE FIRST!”

Strait of Hormuz closure and global impact

Since February 28, following US and Israeli strikes, Iran has effectively closed the strait in retaliation. Around a fifth of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas passes through the strait, and the closure has caused fuel prices to spike worldwide, threatening inflation and prompting countries to seek alternative routes.

US military action and international response

Earlier on Saturday, the US military reported damaging an Iranian bunker housing weapons threatening Gulf oil and gas shipments. Over 20 international allies issued statements backing efforts to reopen the critical sea lane, aiming to reassure energy markets and global partners.