Trump Warns Iran of “Death, Fire, and Fury” Over Strait of Hormuz Disruptions
US President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Iran, promising “death, fire, and fury” if Tehran attempts to block oil shipments through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. His statement came hours after claiming that the ongoing conflict is “far ahead of schedule” and “largely complete.”
The announcement appeared on social media, but Trump offered few details when pressed, further threatening that the United States would respond “twenty times harder” if the waterway were obstructed. Following his comments, oil prices, which had briefly surged above $100 per barrel on Monday, fell closer to $90.
Iranian officials have condemned the rhetoric. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told international media that the US and Israel lack a “realistic endgame” in mind. Locals in Tehran report that heavy overnight airstrikes have left the city in near-total darkness, with repeated explosions and fluctuating electricity affecting daily life.
Regional Responses and Energy Concerns
The situation in the Gulf has prompted emergency measures by several countries. Pakistan’s navy launched Operation Protector of the Seas to secure shipping lanes and ensure uninterrupted energy imports. Meanwhile, Saudi Aramco chief Amin Nasser warned that continued disruption of oil shipments could have “catastrophic consequences” for global energy markets.
The United Kingdom has also prepared the naval ship RFA Lyme Bay, currently stationed in Gibraltar, for deployment in the Eastern Mediterranean if required. Additionally, HMS Dragon will leave Portsmouth in the coming days to support maritime operations.
Damage to Cultural Sites
Verified reports indicate that airstrikes have caused damage to historic landmarks, including Chehel Sotoun Palace in Isfahan and sites in Tehran such as the Grand Bazaar and Golestan Palace. Officials allege that the strikes have targeted government offices but inadvertently impacted nearby World Heritage sites.
Developments in Iran
Iran’s internet has been heavily restricted, with the country spending roughly a third of 2026 offline according to monitoring group NetBlocks. Meanwhile, state media is celebrating the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei, son of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, as Iran’s new head of state. Observers note that Mojtaba has maintained a low public profile but is expected to continue his father’s policies.
Ongoing Conflict
Israeli forces have escalated airstrikes in Tehran and surrounding areas, with residents in Karaj and Tehran reporting more intense attacks than previous nights. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claims military actions are “breaking the bones” of the Iranian regime and reaffirmed that the operations remain active.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have also issued evacuation orders for Lebanese coastal cities, warning that strikes on Hezbollah positions are imminent.
Meanwhile, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has condemned violations of Turkish airspace and continues to call for diplomacy to end the conflict.
Markets reacted to the situation, with European indices rallying following gains in US and Asian markets, though major oil companies saw minor declines amid volatility in oil prices.
