Trump Issues Ultimatum to Iran: Power Plants and Bridges to be Targeted by Tuesday
Speaking at a White House press briefing on Monday, April 6, 2026, President Trump stated that if Tehran does not comply immediately, its power plants and bridges will be systematically targeted. "By Tuesday midnight, every bridge in Iran could be destroyed," the President warned, asserting that their power grids would be disabled and set ablaze. While he noted that the U.S. does not desire such a scenario, he emphasized that the military is prepared to execute these strikes within a very short timeframe.
The President’s core demands for a de-escalation include the immediate and unconditional reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the total cessation of Iran’s ballistic missile program, and the complete dismantling of its nuclear activities. During the briefing, when questioned about whether targeting civilian infrastructure would constitute a war crime under international law, President Trump avoided a direct answer and instead rebuked the questioning journalist. The threat marks a significant departure from traditional engagement rules, signaling a move toward a total-war strategy to force a diplomatic surrender from the Islamic Republic.
Tehran has responded with defiance, as the state-run news agency IRNA reported that the Iranian government has officially rejected the U.S. ceasefire proposal. In a counter-move, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has initiated emergency diplomatic communications with counterparts in India, Russia, and Turkey to build a coalition against the U.S. threats. Iran’s counter-demands include a permanent end to hostilities, guaranteed maritime security, comprehensive war reparations, and the immediate withdrawal of all international economic sanctions.
The intensified friction has sent shockwaves through the global energy market, with the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz causing oil prices to surge to record highs. As of the latest trading session, West Texas Intermediate (WTI) has crossed $115 per barrel, while Brent Crude is trading at over $112 per barrel. Financial analysts warn that if the Tuesday midnight deadline passes without a resolution, the resulting military conflict could trigger a global economic recession. International observers are now watching New York and Tehran closely, as the window for a diplomatic solution appears to be closing rapidly.
