U.S. President Donald Trump has issued an ultimatum to Iran, threatening severe consequences if the country doesn’t open the Strait of Hormuz by Tuesday evening Eastern Time.
Trump Threatens Iran with “Total Destruction”
On Monday, April 6th, President Trump stated that Iran could be “destroyed in one night,” as previously reported. The ultimatum for Iranian authorities expires on Tuesday at 8:00 PM Eastern Time (2:00 AM Wednesday in Poland).
Trump announced that the United States could destroy all Iranian bridges and power plants within four hours if Iran does not open the Strait of Hormuz.
Administration Views Trump as Highly Aggressive
According to Axios, six sources within the U.S. administration describe Trump as exceptionally hawkish. One official stated, “The president is the most bloodthirsty, like a mad dog.”
This assessment contradicts reports suggesting that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are pushing for aggressive action against Iran; sources claim those officials “sound like doves” in comparison to the President.
Negotiations and Potential Agreement
Axios reports that Trump has sought opinions from his advisors regarding a potential attack on Iranian power plants and bridges. Vice President J.D. Vance, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner reportedly believe the President should seek a deal with Iran if possible.
One source close to Trump stated that the President would agree to a deal if offered, but it is unclear if Iran is willing to negotiate. The situation is expected to remain highly tense until the Tuesday 8:00 PM Eastern Time deadline.
Iranian Military Threatens Retaliation
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warned on Tuesday that if the United States crosses “red lines,” Iran will take action against infrastructure, potentially disrupting oil and gas supplies in the region for years.
The IRGC stated, “So far, we have exercised restraint in the spirit of good neighborliness, but our restrictions have now been lifted.” They added that if the U.S. military crosses red lines, their response will extend beyond the region.
