The ongoing confrontation in West Asia has intensified sharply, with Iran warning it could completely shut down the Strait of Hormuz if the United States proceeds with fresh attacks on its energy infrastructure.

The warning came after Donald Trump issued a strong ultimatum, stating that Washington would target Iran’s power facilities if the crucial maritime route is not reopened within 48 hours. In response, Iranian leadership signalled that any such move would trigger wider retaliation across the region.

Senior Iranian officials, including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, cautioned that strikes on Iran could lead to severe consequences, including attacks on key installations in countries hosting US forces. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) also indicated that energy and infrastructure assets linked to US allies could become legitimate targets.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most critical channels for global energy trade, with a significant portion of the world’s oil and gas shipments passing through it. Its closure has already disrupted tanker traffic, driven up fuel prices, and unsettled international markets.

Meanwhile, military activity in the region continues to escalate. Airstrikes have intensified across multiple locations in Iran, including areas near the Gulf, while Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and other regional points. According to Israeli authorities, hundreds of missiles have been launched since the conflict began, though most have been intercepted by defence systems.

The humanitarian impact is also growing. Tens of thousands of buildings in Iran have reportedly been damaged, while thousands of people in Israel have been displaced due to ongoing attacks.

Tensions have further spread to neighbouring regions, with Hezbollah stepping up rocket fire and Israel responding with military action in southern Lebanon.

As the conflict deepens, global oil prices have surged significantly, reflecting fears of prolonged disruption to energy supplies and a broader economic fallout.