Trump Warns of Consequences 'Never Seen Before' If Iran Ignores Ultimatum on Strait of Hormuz
President Trump delivered a forceful warning to Iran on Monday, stating that the United States will impose consequences "never seen before" if Tehran continues to threaten freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. The critical waterway, through which nearly one-third of the world's seaborne oil passes, has been a flashpoint for tensions between the United States and Iran for decades. Speaking from the White House, Trump emphasized that America will not tolerate any disruption to international commerce in the region. "Iran needs to understand that we will protect our interests and those of our allies," the President declared. "If they choose to interfere with ships passing through international waters, they will face consequences unlike anything they have experienced." The ultimatum comes amid rising tensions in the Persian Gulf, with U.S. naval forces maintaining a significant presence in the area. Defense officials confirmed that additional military assets are being positioned in the region as a show of force. Iranian officials have not yet responded to the President's statement, though Tehran has previously warned it could close the strait if subjected to what it considers hostile actions. Energy markets reacted to the news with oil prices showing volatility on international exchanges.