US President Donald Trump on Sunday issued a sharp warning to Iran, saying the United States would target and “obliterate” Iranian power plants if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened within 48 hours.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, “If Iran doesn’t fully open, without threat, the Strait of Hormuz, within 48 hours from this exact point in time, the United States of America will hit and obliterate their various power plants, starting with the biggest one first! Thank you for your attention to this matter.”

Tensions rise over key oil route

The warning comes amid rising tensions in the region, with Iranian forces accused of restricting movement through the Strait of Hormuz. The passage is a critical global energy route, carrying nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply.

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The situation has escalated following ongoing hostilities involving US and Israeli actions against Iran and subsequent counterattacks by Tehran. Concerns over disruption in oil supply have already pushed global prices higher.

Trump signals possible US withdrawal

Just days before the warning, Trump suggested that the US may step back from ensuring stability in the strait. In another post, he said, “The Hormuz Strait will have to be guarded and policed, as necessary, by other Nations who use it - The United States does not.”

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Meanwhile, the Trump administration has announced temporary relief on sanctions tied to Iranian oil shipments already loaded on vessels. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the waiver could release around 140 million barrels of oil into global markets, easing pressure on supply.

The developments come as Israeli officials claim that Iran has fired long-range missiles for the first time in the current phase of the conflict.