Iran warns of retaliation after Trump's 48-hour ultimatum to open Strait of Hormuz
Iran has threatened to target US and Israel-linked energy infrastructure, including desalination plants, if Trump follows through on his threat to attack Iranian power plants
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Amidst the ongoing intense tensions in the Middle East and direct confrontation with the US and Israel, Iran has taken a major and tough step. Following a stern warning from US President Donald Trump, Iran has clarified its position on the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important and busy sea routes. Iran has made it clear that this sea route is open only to ships that have nothing to do with its enemies (i.e., the US and Israel). In fact, earlier Donald Trump had openly threatened Iran that if this waterway was not fully reopened within 48 hours, the US would directly target Iran's power plants.
No entry for enemy ships, but open diplomatic channels
Ali Mousavi, Iran's representative to the United Nations International Maritime Organization (IMO) and former ambassador to Britain, made this important statement in an exclusive interview with a Chinese news agency. Mousavi clarified that Tehran will continue to cooperate with the IMO to improve maritime security and safety for seafarers in the Gulf region. He stressed that merchant ships not affiliated with Iran's enemies can safely transit through the strait by coordinating security arrangements with Tehran. Mousavi also said that diplomacy remains Iran's top priority, but more important is the complete cessation of aggression and the establishment of mutual trust.
The threat of a severe energy crisis deepens worldwide
Iran has directly blamed Israel and the United States for the current crisis in the Strait of Hormuz. Mousavi directly alleges that US and Israeli attacks on Iran are the root cause of this tense situation. It should be noted that during this Great War, most merchant ships around the world have avoided transiting this narrow waterway due to fear of Iranian attacks. This situation is particularly alarming for the entire world because approximately 20 percent of global oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies pass through the Strait of Hormuz. Consequently, the disruption of this route poses a serious threat of a severe energy crisis plaguing the global economy.