Attack on two energy centers of Iran: Trump’s 48-hour ultimatum fulfilled, yet tension at its peak

Tehran/Washington: The 48-hour ultimatum given by US President Donald Trump to completely open the Strait of Hormuz expired on Monday, but at the same time there has been news of air strikes on two important energy facilities of Iran. Iran’s semi-official news agency Fars News (linked to the IRGC) claimed early Tuesday that two gas facilities in Isfahan and Khorramshahr were targeted.

A natural gas administration building and a gas pressure reducing station in Isfahan were attacked, damaging parts of the facilities and nearby houses. In Khorramshahr, the gas pipeline supplying the power plant was targeted, although according to the local governor, the projectile fell outside the station and there were no casualties.

So far neither America nor Israel has taken responsibility for these attacks. Therefore, it was not clear whether these attacks were specifically carried out on these facilities or were part of nearby regional attacks.

Trump’s ultimatum and 5 days’ time

Earlier on Saturday, President Trump had clearly warned that if Iran does not fully open the Strait of Hormuz without any threat, then the US will “obliterate” (destroy) Iran’s power plants—and start with the largest. He had given a strict deadline of 48 hours.

On Tuesday, Trump said he had spoken to a “respected” leader of Iran and that a peace deal was likely. He gave an additional 5 days’ moratorium on attacks and hinted at ending the war. But Iran rejected Trump’s claim and said that Trump was spreading fake news – no talks took place.

Why is the Strait of Hormuz important?

About one-fifth of the world’s oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has already warned that if the US attacks its energy infrastructure, it will completely close the strait and will not open it until the damaged facilities are rebuilt.

Iran has further threatened to target American and Israeli energy and desalination plants in the region.

At present the situation remains extremely tense. On one hand, Trump is talking about ending the war and talks, on the other hand, Iran is claiming attacks and seems to be preparing for retaliatory action. These incidents are also affecting global oil and gas prices.