Trump warns Iran ‘time is running out,’ issues 48-hour Hormuz ultimatum

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump on Saturday, April 4, issued a new warning to Iran, stating that “time is running out” for Tehran to reach a deal or reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

The remarks, posted on social media, come amid escalating tensions in the region and continued disruptions to global energy markets.

Trump’s comments follow a series of statements in which he has alternated between threats and broader strategic claims about US actions.

Meanwhile, European leaders are weighing economic measures to address rising energy costs linked to the conflict.

Trump warns of escalation over Strait of Hormuz

In a post on Truth Social, Trump reiterated a deadline for Iran to either negotiate or reopen the critical maritime passage.

“Remember when I gave Iran ten days to MAKE A DEAL or OPEN UP THE HORMUZ STRAIT,” he wrote. “Time is running out - 48 hours before all Hell will reign down on them. Glory be to GOD!”

The Strait of Hormuz is a key global shipping route for oil, and any disruption has immediate implications for international energy markets.

Trump’s warning underscores the strategic importance of the waterway, which has been at the center of tensions during the ongoing conflict involving Iran.

Trump has issued varying statements on the US approach to the Strait in recent days. Earlier in the week, during a national address, he said the United States had “beaten and completely decimated Iran” and was “going to finish the job, and we're going to finish it very fast.”

In another social media post on Friday, he suggested a different approach, writing: “With a little more time, we can easily OPEN THE HORMUZ STRAIT, TAKE THE OIL, & MAKE A FORTUNE.”

These remarks reflect shifting messaging as the administration navigates both military and economic dimensions of the conflict.

The situation remains fluid, with no immediate confirmation of further US action tied to the stated deadline.

European ministers call for energy profit caps amid price surge

As tensions in the Middle East affect global oil and gas markets, several European finance ministers have proposed measures aimed at limiting the financial impact on consumers.

Ministers from Spain, Germany, Italy, Portugal, and Austria have urged the European Union to introduce a bloc-wide windfall tax on energy companies benefiting from rising prices.

In a letter to the European Commission, the ministers said the ongoing conflict is “placing a significant burden on the European economy and on European citizens.”

They added, “It is important to ensure that this burden is distributed fairly.” The letter, dated Friday, was made public by Spain’s Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo.

European economies remain heavily dependent on imported energy, making them particularly sensitive to disruptions in global supply.

The ministers referenced previous measures taken during earlier crises, including the “solidarity contribution” introduced after Russia invaded Ukraine, which placed limits on excess profits in the energy sector.

“Given the current market distortions and fiscal constraints, the European Commission should swiftly develop a similar EU-wide contribution instrument,” the letter said.

“It would also send a clear message that those who profit from the consequences of the war must do their part to ease the burden on the general public.”