(Image source from: Ndtv.com)
In a major update, President Masoud Pezeshkian has responded to Donald Trump's two-day ultimatum to Iran concerning the Strait of Hormuz. In a message on X, which used to be Twitter, President Masoud Pezeshkian stated, "The belief that Iran can be erased shows the desperation faced by a nation that has made its mark in history. Threats and violence only strengthen our resolve rather than weaken it. The Strait of Hormuz is accessible to everyone, except those who infringe upon our land and rights. We are fully ready to handle any reckless threats with strength and determination. " Donald Trump had warned on his social media site, Truth Social, that if Iran does not reopen this vital shipping route within two days without any conditions or intimidation, the United States would bomb and demolish its power facilities.
According to a report, a high-ranking Iranian official has advised citizens in Israel and Gulf nations to brace for possible interruptions following Donald Trump’s warning about the Strait of Hormuz. Ismail Sakeb Isfahani, who is affiliated with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, encouraged people to gather water supplies and ensure their phones are charged over the next 48 hours. Isfahani pointed out that the situation in the Strait of Hormuz has put additional pressure on Trump. Should the US and Israel target Iranian facilities in the area, this pressure could grow even more intense. Iran’s First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref cautioned that if there is any attack on Iran’s facilities, the entire area could experience a significant power crisis. He mentioned, “An assault on Iran’s energy systems might cause widespread blackouts in the region. ” In reply to Donald Trump’s threat, Iran recently stated that the Strait of Hormuz is still open to everyone except for its foes. According to a report by Reuters, Iran does not plan to completely close down this essential maritime passage.
On Sunday, Iran's envoy to the International Maritime Organization, Ali Mousavi, expressed that the route is open to all ships except those from "enemy nations. " By enemies, Mousavi specifically meant the United States, Israel, and their allies. He added that any vessel that follows Iran’s security rules and is not connected to its enemies would be permitted to navigate through the strait. It is crucial to remember that the Strait of Hormuz is one of the most significant maritime pathways globally. Almost 20 percent of the world’s oil and gas trade transits through this corridor. Iran controls this area geographically, giving it substantial strategic power. After attacks from the US and Israel, Iran has enacted counteractions, tightening its grip on the vessels traveling through the strait. Interruptions in oil and gas supplies through this route have already caused a rise in global oil prices. In summary, this situation has evolved beyond a simple dispute over a waterway; it has become a broader struggle involving energy security and geopolitical influence.
