Tensions in the Middle East remains heightened after Iran rejected a 48-hour ultimatum issued by US President Donald Trump to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian military officials warned that the “gates of hell” would open for the United States and Israel if strikes on energy infrastructure continue, reported CNN. The statement mirrored Trump’s own warning that “all hell will rain down” on Iran if Tehran refuses to open the key shipping channel.
General Ali Abdollahi Aliabadi of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters sharply criticised Trump’s remarks, calling them “helpless, nervous, unbalanced, and reckless.”
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In a recent social media post, Trump said that “time is running out” for Iran to reopen the strategic waterway by his April 6 deadline. He reiterated that failure to act within 48 hours would trigger severe consequences.
"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 rain down on them. Glory be to GOD! President DONALD J. TRUMP," his post read.
Earlier, Trump had announced a temporary pause on strikes targeting Iran’s energy infrastructure, which he later extended until April 6.
Iran’s defiant stance has now raised fears of further escalation in a conflict that is already unsettling global markets and driving oil prices higher. The Strait of Hormuz—one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes—has effectively been closed, significantly disrupting shipping. However, Iran has reportedly allowed limited passage for vessels bound for friendly nations.
Meanwhile, US forces continue search-and-rescue operations for a missing crew member from a downed F-15 fighter jet. Reports indicate that Iranian tribesmen have fired on US helicopters involved in the mission.
In a major setback for US forces, two advanced American warplanes were reportedly shot down by Iran on Friday, just days after Trump claimed in a national address that the US had “completely decimated” Iran’s capabilities. The aircraft reportedly included an F-15E Strike Eagle and an A-10 Warthog. Two pilots have been rescued, while one crew member remains missing.
