Iran Issues Stern Response to Trump’s Ultimatum – ‘Will Retaliate Against All U.S.-Linked Energy Facilities in the Middle East’
News Summary
- Trump warned Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz by 3:14 AM on March 24 or face destruction of Iranian energy facilities.
- In response, Iran threatened retaliation against all energy infrastructures linked to the United States.
- Iran’s blockade and attacks on vessels have caused a sharp increase in oil prices.
March 21, Kathmandu – Iran has issued a strong rebuttal to the United States’ warning to attack its nuclear facilities if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened within 48 hours.
Iran stated that any attack on its energy centers would be met with retaliation targeting all US-related energy infrastructure across the Middle East.
Earlier on Saturday, Trump commented that he had already achieved his military objectives ahead of schedule and emphasized issues he was unwilling to negotiate with Iran on.
Trump had given Iran a 48-hour ultimatum to open the Strait of Hormuz, threatening to destroy Iranian energy facilities if the strait remained closed. Iran responded with threats of retaliation.
Under normal circumstances, approximately 20 percent of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments pass through this waterway, making it critical to global energy supplies.
Trump’s ultimatum is set to expire at 3:14 AM Tehran time on March 24.
According to Iranian state media, in the event of an attack, energy centers associated with the United States in the Gulf region will be targeted.
Trump stated, “If Iran does not fully open the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours exactly at this time, the United States will strike and destroy their largest energy facilities.”
Meanwhile, more than 100 people have been injured following Iran’s attack on the cities of Dimona and Arad in southern Israel. The attack reportedly targeted a nuclear facility located approximately 13 kilometers from the city of Dimona.
In response, Israel has warned of further retaliatory actions against its adversaries.
Simultaneously, the UAE has responded to Iran’s recent missile and drone attacks. Qatar’s Ministry of Defense reported that it is conducting a search for a helicopter that crashed off its coastline during a “routine duty” mission.
Iran’s blockade and attacks on vessels have contributed to a significant rise in oil prices over recent weeks.
