Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf criticizes US President Donald Trump’s ultimatum on the Strait of Hormuz, claiming it endangers American families and the region.
Trump’s Stark Warning
Trump issued a strong warning on Truth Social, stating Iran would face severe consequences unless the Strait of Hormuz fully reopens to shipping by Tuesday at 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time. He reiterated threats to target Iran’s power plants and bridges if the waterway remains closed.
Qalibaf’s Direct Rebuttal
In a response on X, Qalibaf called on Trump to halt what he termed a “dangerous game.” “Your reckless moves are dragging the United States into a living HELL for every single family, and our whole region is going to burn because you insist on following Netanyahu’s commands,” Qalibaf wrote, referencing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Qalibaf fuher emphasized, “Make no mistake: You won’t gain anything through war crimes.”
Background on Strait Closure
Iran restricted access to the Strait of Hormuz for enemy ships following the US and Israeli air campaign that began on February 28. Officials in Tehran announced changes to navigation rules, keeping the strait off-limits to US and Israeli vessels for an extended duration.
The strait handles 20-25% of global oil shipments and about 20% of liquefied natural gas trade.
Rising Energy Costs
Conflict-related disruptions have pushed energy prices higher worldwide, including in the US, where average gasoline prices reached $4 per gallon for the first time since 2022.
Expe Perspective
Russia’s envoy to international organizations in Vienna, Mikhail Ulyanov, notes that Tehran seeks agreements based on reasonable compromises rather than ultimatums from Washington.
