Trump Issues Ultimatum to Iran Over Strait of Hormuz Ahead of 8 PM ET Deadline

US President Donald Trump set an 8 PM ET deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, threatening heavy strikes on power plants, bridges, and other infrastructure if unmet. The ultimatum follows stalled negotiations, with Trump stating the US seeks free oil traffic through the strait. Oil futures extended gains, with US crude up $5 a barrel ahead of the deadline.

Iran's president reported that 14 million people have offered to risk their lives to resist the US. Iranian media stated that all diplomatic channels and indirect talks with the US have been frozen following Trump's threats. The US struck targets on Kharg Island, which processes 90% of Iran's oil, according to Fox News reports.

Trump warned that Iran's entire civilization would die tonight if no deal is reached, adding he does not want that outcome but it probably will happen.

This marks the potential fifth delay of the ultimatum if negotiations progress, per Axios. The UK has distanced itself from the verbal escalation. > "A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again.

“— US President Donald Trump, recent statement (BNO News)”

US Vice President JD Vance said the war will conclude very shortly. The US State Department issued an advisory for Americans in Bahrain, directing government employees to shelter in place ahead of the deadline. Reports indicate a possible US-Iran agreement on the horizon, though talks have stalled.

showed caution, with the S&P 500 down 20 points despite the headlines. Bitcoin pulled back below $68,000 as the deadline approached. Trump considered charging tolls for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz as part of a potential deal. The US has conducted strikes on dozens of targets on Kharg Island, per Fox News.

Iranian responses include freezing indirect talks, with widespread reports of stalled peace negotiations. Trump faces a decision to proceed with threats or delay for further talks.