On Monday, Iran issued a firm warning, stating it would respond with “more devastating and far-reaching” measures if President Trump escalates attacks on civilian sites.
“Should attacks on civilian targets continue, expect our next wave of operations to be more destructive and widespread,” Iran’s Central Command conveyed through state media early that day.
This sharp warning came shortly after President Trump made a provocative statement, suggesting that Iran “should open” the Strait of Hormuz, implying dire consequences for the leadership if they don’t comply.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump remarked, “In Iran, Tuesday is Power Plant Day and Bridge Day rolled into one. This won’t happen!!! Open the Channel you crazy bastards or you’ll live in hell.” He also added, “Attention! Praise be to Allah,” seemingly in a mocking tone.
Interestingly, Middle Eastern sources noted that both nations’ threats coincided with a draft proposal from mediators in Egypt, Pakistan, and Turkey. This proposal called for a 45-day ceasefire and the reopening of the critical Strait of Hormuz.
The aim of this proposal was to provide time for negotiations toward a lasting peace, but no response has been provided yet by either country.
While Trump has generally hesitated to target Iranian power plants, concerned it might hinder Iran’s recovery post-conflict, he had previously declared a suspension of strikes on these sites, citing “productive conversations” taking place. He mentioned that Iran had extended a deadline to April 6 due to an alleged deal involving an oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz.
In a previous commitment, Trump dismissed what he called an Iranian request for a ceasefire, asserting he would take extreme measures to ensure the Strait of Hormuz is fully reopened.
