WASHINGTON: Donald Trump has escalated tensions with Iran, warning Tehran to reopen the vital Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours or face what he called “devastating consequences.”
Taking to Truth Social, Trump recalled that he had previously set a 10-day deadline for Iran to either negotiate or restore access to the key shipping lane. He stressed that the window is rapidly closing, leaving only two days before possible action.
Iran, however, says it has permitted restricted ship movement through the waterway on humanitarian grounds, issuing special clearances for vessels bound for its ports and the Gulf of Oman.
In a related development, reports claim Iran launched a drone attack on a ship allegedly connected to Israel in the Strait of Hormuz, sparking a fire onboard. There has been no immediate response from Israeli officials regarding the incident.
