On March 21, 2026, President Donald Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with a deadline set for Monday night (23:44 GMT). If Iran fails to comply, Trump warned that the US would begin destroying Iran’s energy infrastructure, starting with major power plants
US military preparations
The US has significantly reinforced its presence in the region. Around 5,000 additional Marines have been deployed—the largest buildup since the war began on February 28.
The Pentagon is also preparing contingency plans for a possible ground operation. One key scenario under consideration is seizing Kharg Island, through which roughly 90% of Iran’s oil exports pass. Such a move would aim to pressure Tehran economically and force it to reopen the strait.