Trump's 48-Hour Hormuz Ultimatum Expires; Iran Vows Full Strait Closure and Mine-Laying If Power Plants Struck

Trump's 48-hour ultimatum demanding Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz expired Monday night, with Iran defiant and threatening mine-laying across Gulf sea lanes if power plants are struck. Iran's Defense Council warned of 'decisive and devastating response' to energy infrastructure attacks, while parliament speaker threatened 'irreversible' destruction of regional energy assets. CNN analysis notes Trump faces 'only bad options': striking power plants risks triggering the most intense Iranian reprisals yet and a humanitarian crisis, while inaction allows Tehran to demonstrate it can defy US-Israeli military power. A CBS/YouGov poll shows nearly 60% of Americans believe the war is going badly. Treasury Secretary Bessent's comment that 'sometimes you have to escalate to de-escalate' drew comparisons to Vietnam-era logic. Only 'non-belligerent' nations may transit the Strait through coordination with Tehran.