WEB DESK (MNN); Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has termed recent US threats to target Iran’s energy infrastructure as a sign of “desperation,” warning of a strong and decisive response as tensions escalate over the Strait of Hormuz.
His statement came after US President Donald Trump warned that Washington could strike Iran’s power plants if Tehran fails to ensure the strait remains fully open within 48 hours.
In a message posted on X, Pezeshkian said attempts to “erase Iran from the map” reflect weakness against a resilient nation, adding that such threats would only strengthen unity and determination within the country.
He emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to all nations except those violating Iran’s sovereignty, warning that Tehran would firmly respond to any aggressive actions.
The exchange comes as the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran enters its fourth week, with both sides threatening to target critical infrastructure, raising concerns for regional stability and global energy supplies.
Iran has warned that it could completely shut the strategic waterway — a vital route for global oil shipments — if the United States proceeds with military action. The warning follows Trump’s 48-hour ultimatum to reopen the strait.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited affected areas near a sensitive nuclear research site hit by Iranian missile strikes, calling it a “miracle” that no fatalities were reported despite multiple injuries.
Netanyahu claimed that Israel and its allies were progressing toward achieving key war objectives, including weakening Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities.
Since late February, when US and Israeli strikes began, Iran has restricted tanker traffic linked to its adversaries, disrupting global shipments and pushing up energy prices.
Trump has also claimed that US operations had significantly weakened Iran ahead of schedule and proposed naval escorts for tankers, though allied nations have largely refrained from committing forces.
Senior Iranian officials echoed the president’s stance. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf warned of irreversible destruction of key energy infrastructure in the region if Iran is attacked.
Additionally, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps signaled that it could target strategic facilities beyond the region within 48 hours, underscoring the rising risk of further escalation.
