Is a Whole Civilization at Risk? Trump Issues Stark Warning to Iran
Trump's Dire Warning to Iran
Washington: President Donald Trump has issued a chilling warning, stating that a "whole civilization will die tonight" if Iran does not comply with his demands by the 8 p.m. deadline in Washington.
This threat came approximately 12 hours before the deadline for Iran to agree to terms that include reopening the crucial Strait of Hormuz, or face severe military action.
Iran has dismissed a proposed 45-day ceasefire, insisting instead on a permanent resolution to the conflict, as Trump's ultimatum looms closer, with threats extending to all power plants and bridges in Iran.
On Monday, Trump expressed he was "not at all" worried about potential war crimes, reiterating his threats to dismantle Iranian infrastructure if Tehran fails to meet his demands regarding the Strait of Hormuz.
International Reactions and Military Actions
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres cautioned the US that attacking civilian infrastructure violates international law, according to his spokesperson.
US Vice President JD Vance expressed confidence that Iran would respond to US demands by the evening deadline, stating, "I hope they’re smart."
During a press conference in Budapest, Vance claimed the US had already militarily defeated Iran, which he accused of trying to inflict economic hardship globally by keeping the Strait of Hormuz closed.
He asserted that the US could impose far greater economic consequences on Iran than Iran could on the US or its allies.
"We feel confident that we can get a response, whether it is positive or negative, by 8 o'clock tonight," he added, referencing Trump's deadline.
US Strikes on Iranian Targets
The US has reportedly targeted military installations on Kharg Island, a vital oil hub for Iran, just hours before Trump's ultimatum.
According to a White House official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, these strikes were part of a broader strategy to compel Iran to capitulate.
Trump has even threatened to deploy ground troops to seize critical oil infrastructure on the island, although experts warn that such actions could lead to significant US military casualties without decisively ending the conflict.
Previous strikes have targeted various sites on the island, including air defenses and a hovercraft base, as analyzed by the Institute for the Study of War.
Impact on Iranian Civilians
As the war has halted air travel in Iran, trains have become a crucial means of transport for many seeking to escape to Turkey.
A Tehran resident shared that passenger trains were fully booked, and he had to rent a taxi to reach the border, planning to return after a few months.
Israel's military has warned Iranians against using train travel for safety reasons.
In a separate incident, an Iranian ballistic missile struck a telecommunications building in the UAE, injuring two individuals.
Iranian authorities reported that airstrikes had damaged key infrastructure, including bridges and train stations, although neither the US nor Israel claimed responsibility for these attacks.
Concerns Among Iranians
Residents in Tehran are expressing fears that US attacks on infrastructure could lead to widespread chaos.
One teacher noted that while the Islamic Republic may not be destroyed, ordinary citizens would suffer the consequences.
As panic spreads, many are preparing for potential disruptions to essential services like electricity and water.
Iranians are voicing their mixed feelings about the ongoing conflict, with some expressing hope for a resolution while others fear further escalation.
A young couple in a coffee shop lamented the situation, feeling trapped between escalating threats from both sides.