U.S. Issues 48-Hour Ultimatum to Iran Over Strait of Hormuz
U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington would act decisively if Iran does not allow free passage through the strait, which carries about a fifth of global oil supplies. We will not allow the global economy to be held hostage , Trump said. Adding that U.S. forces in the region were on heightened alert. Iran has recently restricted maritime tra
ffic through the strait following a series of military exchanges with U.S.-aligned forces. While Tehran has not formally declared a closure, officials warned that ongoing hostilities could make transit unsafe. The Strait of Hormuz between Iran and Oman is a critical route for crude exports from Gulf producers including Saudi Arabia, Iraq and the United Arab Emirates. Disruptions have already raised concerns over global energy supplies. The U.S. Navy has stepped up patrols in the area and additional assets have been deployed to protect commercial shipping, a U.S. defense official said. The ultimatum comes amid intensifying regional conflict including missile strikes and air raids. Casualty figures remain unclear. Allies in Europe and the Gulf have called for restraint while emphasizing freedom of navigation. Oil prices rose in early trading on fears of prolonged disruption. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing but failure to resolve the standoff within the deadline could significantly escalate the conflict. Source: The Guardian