Trump Threatens Iran 'Whole Civilization' Could Die Tonight as Hormuz Deadline Nears

President Donald Trump escalated tensions with Iran by renewing his threat of large-scale military action, warning that widespread bombing could begin within hours if Tehran fails to accept U.S. terms to end the conflict. His remarks mark one of the most aggressive signals yet, raising fears of a sharp deterioration in the situation.

"A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again. I don't want that to happen, but it probably will," Trump posted on social media, underscoring the urgency and severity of the ultimatum.

At the same time, Trump suggested there remains a narrow window for diplomacy. He indicated that a resolution could still be reached if new Iranian leadership emerges with what he described as "different, smarter, and less radicalized minds," potentially paving the way for an agreement ahead of the 8 p.m. Eastern Time deadline he set earlier in the week.

"We will find out tonight, one of the most important moments in the long and complex history of the World. 47 years of extortion, corruption, and death, will finally end," he added.

Earlier statements further intensified concerns, as Trump warned that the United States could target critical civilian infrastructure, including power plants, if Iran refuses to comply. Such actions, if carried out, could draw international scrutiny and significantly broaden the scope of the conflict.

The U.S. administration has made clear that a key condition for any agreement is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy corridor. Trump reiterated that failure to meet this demand could trigger direct strikes, reinforcing the high stakes surrounding the deadline.

Tehran, however, has firmly rejected the U.S. ceasefire proposal. Iranian officials are demanding guarantees that hostilities will not resume, the lifting of economic sanctions, and the establishment of secure transit protocols through the Strait of Hormuz. Sources indicate that Iran is unwilling to accept any temporary ceasefire, instead pushing for a comprehensive and lasting agreement.

Additional reports suggest that U.S. forces have already conducted targeted strikes on military assets near Kharg Island, a strategic hub in the Persian Gulf that handles roughly 90 percent of Iran's crude oil exports. Any disruption to operations at this site could have significant implications for global energy markets.

Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts remain underway. According to sources familiar with the discussions, intermediaries, including Pakistani officials, are working to facilitate negotiations between Washington and Tehran. However, recent Iranian missile strikes on targets in Saudi Arabia risk complicating these efforts and undermining progress toward de-escalation.

Iran has reportedly outlined strict preconditions for any peace talks, including an immediate halt to military actions, assurances against future attacks, and compensation for damages incurred during the conflict. In addition, Tehran is seeking the right to impose fees on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, with rates potentially varying based on cargo type and prevailing conditions.