US-Iran War Escalates: Trump Demands Strait of Hormuz Access, Iran Threatens Retaliation
US President Donald Trump issued Iran a 48-hour ultimatum to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to shipping or face US attacks on its energy infrastructure, including the largest power plant. Iran responded by threatening to target US and Israeli energy facilities in the Gulf. The conflict, now in its 23rd day, has spread across the Middle East, with attacks on gas facilities in four countries worsening economic impacts. Iran also claimed to have downed 127 advanced drones from the US and Israel. In related developments, Saudi Arabia declared Iranian embassy staff persona non grata and intercepted nearly 60 drones. Israel closed schools after Iranian strikes injured over 100 people in Arad and Dimona, while Hezbollah clashed with Israeli forces in Lebanon. Qatar reported a military helicopter crash, and Cyprus raised concerns over UK base usage.