Trump Warns Iran of Total Destruction Over Hormuz Threat

Former President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Iran on Tuesday, stating the U.S. would inflict "total destruction" if the Islamic Republic follows through on threats to close the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking at a campaign event, Trump argued that Iranian citizens "want us to do it" because they are "living in hell" under the current regime.

The comments came in response to escalating tensions over Iran's nuclear program and recent threats by Iranian officials to block the strategic waterway, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. "If they close the Strait of Hormuz, they’re going to lose every power plant they have," Trump declared. "They’re going to be obliterated."

Trump framed the potential U.S. military action as a liberation for the Iranian people, claiming widespread discontent within Iran. "The people of Iran are great people," he said. "They’re living in hell, and they want us to do it. They want us to take care of it."

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow passage through which roughly 20% of the world's oil supply passes daily. Iranian leaders have periodically threatened to close it in past confrontations with the West, though such a move would also severely damage Iran's own economy and risk a major international military response. Trump's rhetoric echoes his administration's "maximum pressure" campaign of sanctions and military posturing against Iran.

While the former president did not specify what actions would trigger the "total destruction" he described, his comments represent a significant escalation in rhetorical threats amid ongoing nuclear negotiations and regional proxy conflicts.