Trump Sets New Deadline for Iran to Reopen Strait of Hormuz
Trump's Ultimatum on the Strait of Hormuz
On Tuesday at 8:00 P.M. Eastern Time, President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social a new deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively blocked by Tehran since the onset of the Iran war against its adversaries, including the U.S. and its allies. Trump has repeatedly adjusted deadlines regarding the strait's reopening in recent weeks. This waterway is crucial for transporting oil and gas from the Persian Gulf to Europe and Asia, accounting for approximately 20-25% of global oil trade.
A Review of Trump's Changing Deadlines
Trump's first ultimatum regarding the Strait of Hormuz was issued on March 21, when he threatened to "hit and obliterate" Iranian power plants if the strait was not reopened within 48 hours. Iran responded by asserting that the strait was accessible to all except its "enemies." On March 23, just before the deadline, Trump extended the timeframe by five days, citing progress in discussions with Iran.
On March 26, Trump granted an additional ten days, claiming Iran requested more time, setting a new deadline of April 6, which Tehran denied. By April 4, Trump warned Iranian leaders that "time is running out" to reopen the strait, reiterating his April 6 deadline. On April 5, he suggested a further extension to April 7, stating that Iran would face severe consequences if no action was taken by then. However, he later reaffirmed the Tuesday deadline.
Trump's Latest Threat
Recently, Trump intensified his threats against Iran's infrastructure, stating that if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened by his Monday deadline, the consequences would be dire. In a social media post filled with strong language, he warned that Tuesday would be "Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one, in Iran." During interviews, he reiterated his intention to take action if an agreement is not reached, declaring, "If they don’t make a deal, I am blowing up everything over there."
Iran's Stipulation for Reopening the Strait
Iran has proposed a new condition for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Presidential spokesperson Seyyed Mohammad Mehdi Tabatabaei stated on X that the vital waterway could only be reopened if part of the transit revenues is allocated to compensate Iran for war damages. According to the IRGC-affiliated Fars news agency, fifteen ships have passed through the strait in the last 24 hours with Iran's permission. As the conflict escalates, both sides have threatened civilian targets, raising concerns about potential war crimes.
(With agency inputs)