PoliticsApril 19, 2026

Trump threatens to destroy Iran’s power plants and bridges as Strait of Hormuz standoff halts oil flow

President Trump warns of destroying Iranian infrastructure if no deal is reached, as Iran halts oil transit through the critical Strait of Hormuz, affecting global oil supplies.

Nadia Okafor/3 min/US

Political Correspondent

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Source: AljazeeraOpen original reporting

Amid stalled negotiations, US President Donald Trump delivered a direct warning to Iran, stating the US would destroy critical infrastructure if a deal is not accepted. This declaration coincides with Iran's decision to halt transit in the Strait of Hormuz, a move that has impacted global oil shipments.

A critical standoff between the United States and Iran continues to escalate, now focusing on the Strait of Hormuz. This vital maritime chokepoint, through which roughly 20% of global oil supplies pass daily, has become a flashpoint amid stalled diplomatic efforts. US blockades on Iranian ports have been met with counter-measures from Tehran, heightening regional tensions.

President Trump issued a stern warning, stating that if Iran does not accept the current deal, the United States will "knock out every single power plant, and every single bridge, in Iran." This warning follows Iran's recent reversal of its decision to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for commercial vessels. Subsequently, the Iranian military fired on a vessel attempting to transit the strait. These actions have effectively restored the waterway to a tightly controlled status, causing commercial shipping traffic in the Gulf to halt.

The re-closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the US President's direct threats intensify an already volatile situation, directly impacting global oil markets and regional stability. The immediate cessation of shipping traffic raises concerns about potential supply disruptions and increased energy prices worldwide. Future developments will hinge on diplomatic negotiations, with US negotiators traveling to Pakistan for talks, and responses from both Washington and Tehran regarding continued freedom of navigation in the strait.

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