Iran Defies U.S. Ultimatum Amid Escalating Strikes

Iranian officials have dismissed President Donald Trump's ultimatum to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, as hostilities between the U.S.-Israel alliance and Iran escalate.

On Sunday, President Trump issued a stern warning to Iran via social media, demanding the reopening of the strategic waterway by Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET. He threatened severe consequences, stating, "Tuesday will be Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one, in Iran."

In response, Iranian officials condemned the threats. Seyyed Mehdi Tabatabai, a spokesman for Iran's president, described Trump's statement as "sheer desperation and anger." He asserted that the strait would remain closed until damages from the conflict are compensated through a new legal regime involving transit fees.

Esmail Baghaei of Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Iran's determination to defend its national security and sovereignty.

The Iranian Mission to the U.N. accused President Trump of inciting terror against civilians and intending to commit war crimes, urging the international community to prevent such actions.

Amid these tensions, diplomatic efforts are underway. Egyptian, Pakistani, and Turkish envoys have proposed a 45-day ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The proposal has been submitted to both Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and U.S. Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff.

Concurrently, military actions have intensified. U.S. and Israeli forces conducted airstrikes targeting Iran's petrochemical and steel industries, aiming to disrupt missile production capabilities. Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks on Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv and Haifa, as well as oil refineries in Gulf countries.

The situation remains volatile, with both sides exchanging threats and military actions, while diplomatic channels seek to de-escalate the conflict.