Tehran, Iran — Iran on Tuesday responded firmly to US President Donald Trump’s threats, asserting that “no threat can undermine” its deeply rooted civilization. The warning comes as tensions between Washington and Tehran have escalated to unprecedented levels over the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing military confrontations in the region.
In a statement posted on social media platform X, Iranian government spokeswoman Fatemeh Mohajerani emphasized that national security remains the top priority, and that all governmental affairs are being carefully managed despite the crisis. She reassured citizens that Iran remains committed to protecting its people and infrastructure against external threats.
Earlier, President Trump issued a stark warning on his social media platform Truth Social, declaring, “A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again.” The US president set a deadline for Tuesday at 8 pm Eastern Time (0000GMT Wednesday), threatening to destroy every bridge and power plant in Iran if Tehran failed to reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz and reach an agreement with the United States.
The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial waterway through which approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply passes, making it a highly sensitive geopolitical flashpoint. Any disruption could have immediate and far-reaching consequences for global energy markets, regional stability, and international shipping.
The heightened tensions come against the backdrop of the ongoing US-Israeli offensive against Iran, which began on February 28. The campaign has already claimed more than 1,340 lives, including that of the former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, according to Iranian reports.
In retaliation, Iran has conducted drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military assets, resulting in casualties, damage to infrastructure, and disruptions to global markets and aviation. Iranian officials have warned that further attacks on civilian infrastructure would be met with severe consequences, including potential long-term disruptions to energy supplies in the region.
Iran’s defiant response underscores the shrinking window for diplomatic engagement between Tehran and Washington. Earlier efforts by China and Pakistan to mediate ceasefire proposals and facilitate negotiations appear increasingly precarious. Meanwhile, the European Union has condemned threats against civilian infrastructure, emphasizing that attacks could impact millions and dangerously escalate tensions in the Middle East.
By publicly reaffirming its resilience, Iran is signaling that external threats and ultimatums will not destabilize its governance or societal cohesion. The statement also seeks to project confidence to the domestic audience, reassuring citizens that the government is in control amid a period of heightened uncertainty.
Energy and security analysts warn that escalating rhetoric and potential strikes could have far-reaching consequences for global oil markets. The Persian Gulf, home to key oil export hubs such as Kharg Island, has already been the site of US-Israeli airstrikes, prompting fears of broader energy supply disruptions.
“The threats being exchanged are not just political messaging; they carry real implications for global supply chains, maritime navigation, and economic stability,” said a Gulf energy analyst. “Any attack on infrastructure in Iran or the Strait of Hormuz could send oil prices soaring and destabilize international markets.”
Iran’s statement on Tuesday serves as a clear message of defiance: while the United States may issue threats of unprecedented severity, Tehran emphasizes that its civilization and national identity remain unshakable. The standoff around the Strait of Hormuz, coupled with ongoing military strikes, underscores the fragility of regional stability and the high stakes for global energy security.
As the world watches, the next few hours and days will be critical in determining whether the crisis escalates further or whether diplomatic intervention can prevent a catastrophic confrontation.
