Trump warns Iran could be ‘taken out in one night’ as deadline looms
Tehran rejected a temporary ceasefire proposal, keeping the Strait of Hormuz closed and oil markets jittery. The U.S. and Israel continue strikes while Washington presses a Tuesday deadline to reopen the chokepoint. A prolonged shutdown risks higher energy prices and broader economic disruption.
Apr 6, 2026, 5:50 PM EDT
Why it matters:
- A closed Strait of Hormuz threatens global oil and gas supplies, with prices already spiking and supply chains at risk.
Driving the news:
- President Donald Trump warned Iran could be “taken out in one night” if it fails to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by a Tuesday 8 p.m. ET deadline. - Tehran rejected a temporary ceasefire proposed during talks with the U.S. and regional mediators, keeping hostilities ongoing.
State of play:
- Strikes continue on both sides, the humanitarian situation is worsening, and the global economy remains volatile. - Iran’s response to the ceasefire proposal reportedly included 10 clauses, including a permanent end to conflict and safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
What they're saying:
- “The entire country can be taken out in one night, and that night might be tomorrow night,” Trump said, warning of strikes on key infrastructure if the strait isn’t reopened. - Iranian state media said Tehran rejected the 45-day ceasefire and favored a permanent end to the war.
By the numbers:
- The Strait of Hormuz carries about 20% of the world’s oil consumption, per the International Energy Agency. - Iran’s grid includes roughly 130 thermal plants with about 78,000 megawatts of capacity, spread across a country more than three times the size of Iraq.
What to watch:
- Whether Tehran accepts a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by the Tuesday deadline or faces further U.S. strikes on energy and transport infrastructure. - Oil and LNG price movements and any escalation in regional strikes if the deadline passes without a breakthrough.
The bottom line:
- The Strait of Hormuz is the flashpoint — and the clock is ticking.