Trump Threatens Power Plant Strikes if Iran Won't Reopen Strait of Hormuz

President Trump escalated his threats on April 5, warning that Tuesday would be Power Plant and Bridge Day.

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Axios

He posted an expletive-laden message commanding Iran to Open the F***in' Strait.

BBC

The Strait of Hormuz normally carries about 20% of the world's oil.

Trump had repeatedly extended his deadlines: five days, then ten, then another 24 hours.

US oil prices surged 11% the day after his previous speech.

Iran rejected Trump's ultimatum outright, saying it would not reopen the strait in exchange for a temporary ceasefire.

Iran's central military command warned of much more devastating retaliation if civilian targets were hit.

Benzinga

The Guardian noted Iran's deputy foreign minister claimed Trump's threats could amount to war crimes.

Israel completed a wave of strikes against regime targets in Tehran, killing at least 25.

Trump's rhetoric triggered bipartisan backlash in the US.

“President Donald Trump on Sunday warned Iran of dire consequences if it does not open the Strait of Hormuz before the deadline ends on Tuesday”

Benzinga

Marjorie Taylor Greene decried Trump's madness.

Bernie Sanders called it dangerous and mentally unbalanced.

Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer said Trump was ranting like an unhinged madman.

Tens of thousands of civilians had been killed over five weeks with no end in sight.