U.S. President Donald Trump has warned Iran that if it does not completely open the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours, the U.S. will target their major power plants. This statement effectively serves as an ultimatum, coming just a day after Trump expressed a willingness to consider reducing military operations. The ultimatum appears to be a reaction to the economic pressures resulting from the blockade of the Strait, which is vital for global oil and LNG shipments, leading to rising oil prices.

Experts warn that a U.S. strike on Iran's power facilities could lead to catastrophic humanitarian and structural disasters for the Iranian regime. An interruption in power supply would halt operations of water and sewage pumps, causing critical shortages of drinking water and potentially triggering widespread disease and food security crises. Iran’s military command has declared that if their energy infrastructure is attacked, all U.S. and Israeli energy, IT, and desalination facilities in the region will be targeted, treating these actions as fundamental threats to their survival.

Despite the ultra-high stakes of this confrontation, there are suggestions that Trump's approach may also be intended to strengthen his negotiating position. Axios reported that the Trump administration has begun preparing for peace negotiations with Iran, with both parties potentially exploring conditions through a third country. Iran’s leadership appears to assess the situation favorably, seeing potential pathways for concluding conflicts with the U.S. and its allies based on current engagements.