Trump sets 48-hour Hormuz deadline, Iran warns of retaliatory action

Tehran: Iran's largest military command unit, Khatam al-Anbiya, has responded to U.S. President Donald Trump's 48-hour ultimatum. Dismissing Trump's threats and warnings, the unit declared that if Tehran's infrastructure were to be attacked, the Strait of Hormuz would be completely shut down as a punitive measure. In a post on 'Truth' on Sunday morning, Trump had stated that if the Strait of Hormuz were not fully reopened, major Iranian installations—including its power plants—would be targeted.

What the Iranian Military Said Regarding Trump’s Threat

Iran's central command authority—namely Khatam al-Anbiya (the unified combat command headquarters of the Iranian Armed Forces, operating directly under the General Staff)—issued a statement clarifying its stance. Iran explicitly stated that if its energy infrastructure were to be damaged in U.S.-Israeli attacks, it would completely close off the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran Threatens to Close Hormuz

The statement read: "Hormuz remains under our control, and currently, safe passage continues in accordance with established regulations. However, should our interests come under attack, severe countermeasures will be taken." An Iranian spokesperson warned that if its power plants were to suffer damage, not only would the Strait of Hormuz be shut down, but Israel's energy infrastructure, power plants, and information and communication systems would also be subjected to extensive targeting. Threat of Attacks on US and Israeli Infrastructure

The statement further asserted that power plants and facilities located in the Gulf region—specifically those with a US presence—would be included among potential targets. However, Iran also reiterated that it has not initiated a war and does not seek to escalate the conflict, yet it will take "every necessary step" to safeguard its national interests and security.

Warning of Retaliatory Strikes in the National Interest

The statement continued: "We did not start this war, and we will not start it now. However, if our power plants are damaged, we will do whatever is necessary in the interest of our country and our nation." Meanwhile, more than 20 countries have condemned this blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump has also urged nations such as China, France, and the UK to dispatch ships to help secure this vital maritime route.