US President Donald Trump has threatened to strike Iran’s power plants if Tehran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping within 48 hours, escalating tensions in the ongoing conflict. He warned that the US would “hit and obliterate” Iran’s power plants, starting with the largest one, if the blockade continues.

The threat was issued on March 21, 2026, as oil tankers remained stranded due to Iran’s closure of the vital waterway. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical chokepoints for global energy, with about 20% of international oil trade passing through it daily. The blockade has already caused a surge in global energy prices, with Brent crude futures closing at $112.19 per barrel on Friday, the highest in months.

Trump’s remarks came just a day after he suggested that the US was “winding down” its military campaign against Iran. Instead, the new ultimatum signals a sharp escalation, raising fears of direct strikes on Iranian infrastructure. “We will obliterate Iran’s power plants if they don’t open the Strait within 48 hours,” Trump said, adding that the US is prepared to act swiftly.

The blockade has disrupted shipping traffic, leaving tankers anchored off Oman and other nearby waters. Analysts warn that a prolonged closure could destabilize global markets further, affecting not only oil but also liquefied natural gas exports from Qatar, which rely on the strait.

Iran has not yet responded directly to Trump’s ultimatum, but officials previously defended the blockade as retaliation for US-Israeli strikes on Iranian targets, including the killing of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in February. Tehran has also launched long-range missiles at Israel in recent days, marking a dangerous escalation in the conflict.

The US administration insists it is “very close to meeting our objectives” in the war, though Trump has not clarified whether this includes deploying ground forces in Iran.

Global reactions have been swift. Energy markets remain volatile, with fears of further price hikes if the strait remains closed. The United Nations has urged restraint, warning that attacks on civilian infrastructure such as power plants could trigger a humanitarian crisis in Iran.

For now, the world is watching closely as the 48-hour deadline approaches. If Iran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz, Trump’s threat of striking Iranian power plants could mark a dangerous new phase in the conflict, with severe consequences for regional stability and global energy security.