Trump warns Iran to reopen Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours or face destruction of energy facilities !

New Delhi – US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Iran, stating that if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened within 48 hours, the United States will launch strikes targeting Iran’s energy infrastructure, beginning with its largest facilities.

Iran responds: “We will destroy US-Israel energy projects”

Responding to Trump’s warning, Ebrahim Zolfaghari, spokesperson for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Command, stated that any attack on Iran’s energy facilities would trigger retaliatory strikes against energy infrastructure linked to the United States and Israel across the Middle East.

He added that desalination plants and information-technology facilities could also be targeted.

A coalition of 22 countries, including the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Japan, has urged de-escalation, stating that blocking the Strait of Hormuz constitutes a violation of international law and calling on Iran to reopen the maritime route.

Strait open for neutral countries, closed for “Enemy Nations”: Iran

Iran announced that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to vessels from most countries but will be closed to ships linked to “enemy nations,” including the United States, Israel, and their allies.

Nearly 20% of the world’s oil supply passes through the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns about potential disruptions to global energy markets.

Internet shutdown in Iran enters 4th week

Internet services in Iran have remained severely restricted for the past 4 weeks. According to monitoring organization NetBlocks, international internet connectivity has been almost completely cut off, while domestic access remains highly limited.

The government has also imposed restrictions on VPN services and satellite internet, leaving citizens with very limited online access.

Fuel prices rise again in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has once again increased petrol and diesel prices; the 2nd hike within 2 weeks.

Petrol price: 398 rupees per litre (up from 317 rupees)
Diesel price: 382 rupees per litre
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake stated that global conflict could disrupt oil supplies and emphasized the need for the country to prepare in advance.

Iran launches missile strike near Israel’s Dimona nuclear facility

On March 21st, tensions escalated further as Iran and the US-Israel alliance targeted each other’s key nuclear installations.

Israeli and US air forces reportedly carried out a major strike on Iran’s primary nuclear facility at Natanz. In retaliation the same night, Iran launched ballistic missiles toward Israel’s nuclear complex in Dimona.

One missile struck a residential area, causing a multi-storey building to collapse and injuring 47 people.

Dimona known as “Little India”; significant Marathi-speaking population

Dimona is often referred to as “Little India” due to its large population of Indian-origin Jews. Nearly 30% of the city’s population (about 7,500 residents) traces its roots to India, many belonging to the Marathi-speaking Bene Israel community from Maharashtra.

Indian cultural influence is visible in local cuisine, traditions, and language, with Indian sweets and snacks commonly available. Cricket is also widely popular in the city.

Iran accuses US-Israel of targeting civilian vessels

Iranian military officials have accused the United States and Israel of targeting private and passenger vessels in the Gulf region, warning that continued actions would invite an unprecedented response.

Meanwhile, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that military operations against Iran would intensify significantly in the coming week.