Iran threatens to 'completely' close Hormuz after Trump's ultimatum
What's the story
Iran has threatened to "completely close" the Strait of Hormuz if United States President Donald Trump goes ahead with his threat to strike Iranian energy facilities within 48 hours. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said energy sites in countries hosting US bases would become "lawful" targets. This comes after Trump warned that if Iran doesn't fully open the Strait of Hormuz, the US would hit and obliterate their power plants.
Escalating tensions
Iranian Parliament Speaker warns of 'irreversible' destruction
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf has warned that if Tehran's infrastructure is targeted, key facilities across the region could be "irreversibly destroyed." Iranian military officials have also threatened to target US-linked energy, technology, and water infrastructure in the Gulf. In a statement, the Guards said, "The Strait of Hormuz will be completely closed and will not be opened until our destroyed power plants are rebuilt."
Escalating conflict
Conflict intensifies as missile launches rattle Israel
The conflict has intensified with air raid sirens sounding across parts of Israel after missile launches. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported that Iran has fired over 400 ballistic missiles since the war started, with around 92% intercepted. In Iran, over 81,000 civilian homes and buildings have been damaged due to US-Israeli strikes, according to the Red Crescent. Meanwhile, more than 2,700 Israelis who have been displaced by Iranian attacks are now being sheltered by government agencies, according to authorities.
Economic impact
Global impact of the conflict
The ongoing conflict has also impacted the global economy, with oil prices hitting multi-year highs. Brent crude traded around $110 per barrel after touching $119 earlier in the day. The potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz could exacerbate the situation further. On the other hand, any strike on power and desalination infrastructure in Gulf countries could disrupt basic services like drinking water and electricity for daily life.
Ongoing operations
US and Israeli forces continue strikes
Despite the escalating tensions, US and Israeli forces continue to carry out strikes. Israeli officials have indicated that military operations against Iran and its allies could continue for weeks. The fighting has also spread to Lebanon, where Hezbollah has exchanged fire with Israeli forces. The conflict has already claimed over 2,000 lives since it began on February 28, according to Reuters.