Trump Issues 8 p.m. Ultimatum to Iran Over Strait of Hormuz

President Donald Trump has set an 8 p.m. deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, threatening military strikes if the vital waterway remains closed. The ultimatum raises the immediate risk of direct conflict and a significant spike in global oil prices. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global energy shipments, with roughly a fifth of the world's oil supply passing through its narrow channel. Trump's deadline, delivered via social media, underscores the heightened tensions following recent attacks on shipping in the region. Market analysts warn that any sustained closure or military engagement could trigger sharp volatility in crude markets and broader financial assets. The White House has not detailed what specific actions would constitute reopening the strait, but the president's statement explicitly linked non-compliance to potential strikes.