News Desk
According to global media reports, Donald Trump has given Iran another deadline until 6 April to reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, warning of “serious consequences” if it fails to comply. During the ongoing conflict, he has repeatedly issued and then revised such deadlines.
A timeline of shifting deadlines
- First deadline (21 March):
Mr Trump warned that if Iran did not reopen the key trade route within 48 hours, the United States would launch strikes on major electricity infrastructure and “destroy” key power plants. - Second deadline:
Two days later, he said “very good and productive talks” had taken place, delaying attacks on energy infrastructure by five days. - Third deadline (27 March):
Following what he described as a request from Iran, Mr Trump postponed potential strikes by 10 days, extending the deadline to 6 April. - 48-hour warning:
As the deadline approached, he issued a fresh 48-hour ultimatum, threatening severe attacks if no agreement was reached. - Latest threat:
On Sunday, Mr Trump escalated his rhetoric further, warning that Iran would face devastating consequences if it failed to comply.
Oil prices surge amid tensions
Following the latest warnings, global oil prices have risen sharply, reaching $110 per barrel on Monday amid fears of disruption in the Strait of Hormuz.
Are these threats war crimes?
Analysts warn that threats to target civilian infrastructure — including power plants, oil facilities and water treatment systems — could violate international law.
According to BBC Report, Experts, including former International Criminal Court prosecutor Luis Moreno Ocampo, say such facilities are not legitimate military targets if they primarily serve civilians. Deliberate attacks on civilian infrastructure could constitute war crimes.
The White House has rejected these concerns, stating that US forces would operate within the law.
Deadly strikes reported near Tehran
Deadly strikes reported near TehranOfficials in Tehran say at least 13 people were killed in an attack on a residential area in the suburb of Baharestan. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with fears that more victims may be trapped under rubble.
Iranian media also reported strikes on residential units in nearby areas.
Universities and infrastructure targeted
Authorities reported attacks near Sharif University of Technology, including damage to buildings and disruption to gas supplies. Other universities in Tehran have also reportedly been hit since the conflict began.
Iran warns of retaliation
Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei warned that any attack on Iran’s infrastructure would be met with reciprocal strikes.
He described targeting energy infrastructure as endangering civilian lives and potentially constituting a crime against humanity.
Meanwhile, Iranian officials reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz is not fully closed but restricted for “hostile nations,” with discussions ongoing about imposing transit fees on passing vessels.
UK claims to intercept Iranian drones
The UK Ministry of Defence said the Royal Air Force had shot down multiple Iranian drones. British Typhoon and F-35 jets continue defensive operations across the region, supported by naval and air assets.
Exiled prince calls for change
Reza Pahlavi has urged Iran’s Revolutionary Guards to step back from what he called “adventurism” before further destruction occurs. He blamed the conflict on the country’s leadership and called for political change.
Regional developments
Regional developments- Iran-linked media report that 15 ships passed through the Strait of Hormuz in the past 24 hours, though traffic remains significantly reduced.
- Oman says it is discussing options with Iran to ensure safe navigation.
- The United Arab Emirates has expressed support for US-led efforts in the region.
Rocket attack in Israel
In Haifa, four people were injured in a rocket attack, including an elderly man in serious condition, according to emergency services.
