US President Donald Trump has issued a grave ultimatum to Iran, warning that “a whole civilisation will die tonight” if Tehran fails to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by his 8pm EDT deadline on Tuesday.
The US leader, posting on Truth Social, said he does not want that outcome but fears it is likely unless a deal is struck quickly. He added that “something revolutionarily wonderful” could still happen before the clock runs out.
Fresh US strikes have already hit military targets on Iran’s Kharg Island, the country’s main oil export hub. Officials in Washington confirmed the operation did not target oil facilities directly but aimed at military infrastructure.
NaijaChoice News reports that Israel has also intensified its campaign, confirming strikes on a third petrochemical site inside Iran. Israeli authorities warned Iranians against using trains, stating it “endangers your life.”
The human rights group HRANA, based in the United States, says more than 3,500 people have died in Iran since the US-Israeli attacks began. At least 1,665 of them were civilians.
Iran has formally rejected a US-backed ceasefire proposal, state media said. Tehran instead presented its own list of demands, insisting on a permanent end to the conflict and the lifting of sanctions.
The Strait of Hormuz carries about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. Any prolonged closure has sent shockwaves through global energy markets.
For Nigeria, the developments carry direct consequences. As Africa’s largest oil producer, higher crude prices could boost government revenue and ease some pressure on the naira. Yet analysts warn of knock-on effects, including higher costs for imported refined products and potential strain on local fuel supply chains.
Energy experts monitoring the situation told NaijaChoice News that the Dangote Refinery and other domestic players may see short-term gains from elevated international benchmarks. However, prolonged disruption in the Gulf could still push pump prices higher for Nigerian motorists.
The crisis continues to unfold with hours left before Trump’s deadline. Both sides show little sign of backing down, leaving the region and global oil-dependent economies on edge.
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