President Donald Trump on Monday renewed threats to destroy Iran’s civilian infrastructure, warning US forces could cripple bridges and power plants within hours if demands failed.
Five weeks into the Middle East war, Trump demanded Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz to global shipping by Tuesday midnight or face intensified bombing.
Both Washington and Tehran rejected a proposed 45-day ceasefire, saying negotiations mediated by international actors had not yet produced acceptable conditions for peace.
Trump said the US military could deliver “complete demolition” of Iranian infrastructure within four hours, escalating fears of a broader regional catastrophe.
Iran’s military vowed to continue fighting as long as political leaders ordered, signalling hardened positions despite mounting international calls for restraint.
The International Committee of the Red Cross warned that threats against essential civilian infrastructure violate international humanitarian law and risk severe civilian suffering.
US and Israeli forces struck Iranian petrochemical facilities and military targets, while Iran launched missiles and drones across the region in continued retaliation.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged to pursue enemies relentlessly, as Iran’s Revolutionary Guards promised major retaliation after senior commanders were killed in strikes.
The conflict has disrupted global energy markets, with Iran’s blockade of Hormuz driving oil prices higher and forcing countries to reroute energy supplies.
Missile attacks also struck residential areas in Israel and Iran, underscoring the growing human toll as the war deepens without signs of immediate de-escalation.
