Trump warns Iran, asks Tehran to open Strait of Hormuz; would completely close strait, says Iran

TEHRAN: US President Donald Trump has warned that the United States would destroy power plants in Iran if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened. In response, Iran said it would completely close the strait and target energy facilities linked to the US in West Asia. Iran also warned that it would not hesitate to attack desalination plants in the region.

Iran claimed that it shot down a US F-15 fighter jet near Hormuz Island in the Persian Gulf. However, there has been no official confirmation from the United States.

Iran said that the strait is currently open, but ships linked to “enemy countries” will not be allowed to pass. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global route as around one-fifth of the world’s oil and LNG supply passes through it.

If the US attacks Iran’s power plants, it could disrupt electricity supply across the country and affect refineries, export terminals, and military command centres. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia expelled Iran’s military attaché and four embassy officials in protest against ongoing attacks linked to Iran.

Tensions rise after Trump’s warning

1. A day after saying that the conflict was close to achieving its goals and hinting at ending the war, Trump issued a strong ultimatum to Iran, reducing hopes for a peaceful resolution.
2. Trump had also said that ensuring the safety of ships in the Strait of Hormuz is the responsibility of the countries that use the route.

Widespread damage in Israel
In Israel, Iranian missile attacks caused widespread damage in the southern cities of Dimona and Arad. The strikes were said to be in retaliation for an attack on Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility. Around 180 people were injured, and several buildings were damaged. A missile also landed near the Negev Nuclear Research Centre, about 13 km from Dimona, but the facility remains safe. In response, Israel reportedly carried out an airstrike on Malek Ashtar University in Tehran, claiming that Iran was producing components for nuclear weapons there. In northern Israel, a Hezbollah attack killed one person.

Helicopter crash in Qatar; 7 killed
In Qatar, a military helicopter crashed into the sea during a routine mission, killing seven people. Authorities said the crash was caused by a technical failure. Among the dead were three Turkish security personnel.