Trump threatens Iran with strikes on bridges, power plants after Hormuz attacks

US President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Iran, pledging to destroy one of its bridges or power plants for every attack on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. This escalation comes amid intensifying regional tensions and expanded US air strikes targeting Iranian infrastructure.

Trump's Retaliatory Threat

In a social media post on Wednesday, Trump declared, “From this point forward, any time the Islamic Republic of Iran shoots at a ship in the Strait of Hormuz, whether it be by Missile, Rocket, Drone, or any other device or weapon, the United States will bomb and destroy ONE BRIDGE OR POWER PLANT.” The statement revives his earlier strategy of targeting Iranian infrastructure as a form of retaliation and follows 11 consecutive nights of US air strikes on Iranian territory.

US Targets Iranian Military Assets

The US Central Command confirmed that its latest operations have focused on crippling Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping in the vital waterway. Targets have included Iranian military command centres, maritime capabilities, aircraft hangars, drone storage facilities, and logistics infrastructure. Meanwhile, Iranian media reported explosions in several provinces, including near Tabriz in northwestern Iran, a region not previously known to have been hit during this conflict.

Regional Implications

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical trade route, with roughly a fifth of global oil shipments passing through its waters. Recent attacks have heightened concerns about the security of international shipping lanes, while the conflict has begun to spill into other parts of the region. Iran has reportedly targeted Jordan, and Houthi rebels have issued threats near another vital trade corridor. These developments underscore the growing risk of broader regional instability.

Defences Activated in Tehran

Amid the escalating confrontation, air defence systems were activated over Tehran, signaling Iran’s readiness to respond to further US strikes.

This latest round of hostilities marks a significant escalation in the US-Iran conflict, with both sides ramping up military actions and rhetoric. The situation continues to place global trade and regional security in jeopardy.

Source: South China Morning Post