Trump, Tehran Exchange Threats

The escalating rhetoric set off alarm bells across the Middle East, with oil-exporting Gulf countries saying that Iranian reprisals could further endanger the world economy.

The U.S. president’s threat came in a Saturday evening social-media post.

“If Iran doesn’t FULLY OPEN, WITHOUT THREAT, the Strait of Hormuz, within 48 HOURS from this exact point in time, the United States of America will hit and obliterate their various POWER PLANTS, STARTING WITH THE BIGGEST ONE FIRST!” Trump posted.

Tehran said it would respond in kind to any attack on its critical infrastructure. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi posted on X that the U.S.’s threat raised issues under international law.