President Trump delivered a stark ultimatum to Iran on Saturday, giving the nation just 48 hours to reopen the critical Strait of Hormuz shipping lane or face what he described as devastating retaliation.
Taking to Truth Social, the President declared: “Remember when I gave Iran ten days to MAKE A DEAL or OPEN UP THE HORMUZ STRAIT. Time is running out – 48 hours before all Hell will reign down on them. Glory be to GOD!” The message represents a significant intensification of tensions over the vital maritime corridor.
Just one day earlier, Trump had suggested more aggressive action regarding the waterway, posting on social media: “With a little more time, we can easily OPEN THE HORMUZ STRAIT, TAKE THE OIL, & MAKE A FORTUNE.”
The narrow waterway serves as a crucial chokepoint for global energy supplies, with one-fifth of all international oil and natural gas shipments passing through its waters. Iran has implemented selective restrictions on vessel passage, blocking ships from nations it considers adversaries, including the United States, Israel, and their allies. Meanwhile, Tehran continues permitting vessels from Russia, China, Pakistan, India, and other nations to use the route.
Iranian officials announced Friday they would allow Iraqi ships to pass despite the ongoing restrictions. Government spokesman Ebrahim Zolfaghari stated on state-controlled television: “We announce that our brotherly country of Iraq is exempt from any restrictions we have imposed on the Strait of Hormuz, and these restrictions only apply to enemy countries.”
The shipping disruptions have triggered dramatic increases in worldwide energy costs. Brent crude oil prices have jumped dramatically from approximately $65 per barrel to a range of $100 to $120 per barrel in early April 2026, demonstrating the significant economic consequences of the strait’s partial closure on global markets.
