Trump threatens ‘hell’ for Iran over Hormuz Strait as deadline approaches

US President Donald Trump has escalated tensions with Iran by issuing a profane ultimatum, warning of attacks on Iranian power plants and bridges if Tehran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz to all shipping by a Tuesday deadline. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical maritime passage for nearly a fifth of the world’s oil and gas exports, and its closure has contributed to rising global energy prices.

Trump’s threat followed the successful rescue of a US fighter pilot shot down over Iran, after an intense search in southwestern Iran. Despite the rescue, Trump reaffirmed his ultimatum in posts on his social media platform, Truth Social, saying: “Tuesday will be Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one, in Iran. Open the f‑in’ Strait… or you’ll be living in Hell.” He also indicated that there was a “good chance” a deal could be reached with Tehran, but warned of potential broader military action if diplomacy fails.

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Iran dismissed Trump’s ultimatum as “helpless, nervous, unbalanced, and stupid,” with officials warning that any aggressive action could provoke serious retaliation. Tehran has indicated it will only reopen the Strait once a portion of transit fees compensates for war-related damages. Iranian military officials reiterated that threats to civilian infrastructure would escalate tensions across the region.

The latest warnings extend an ongoing series of US-Iran confrontations. Since the start of the conflict, Iran has fired missiles and drones at Israel and US-allied Gulf nations, while US and Israeli forces have conducted airstrikes on Iranian facilities, including petrochemical plants and the Qasem Soleimani international airport. Civilian infrastructure in the region has sustained significant damage, with injuries reported in Israel and fires at facilities in Abu Dhabi and Kuwait caused by Iranian drone attacks.

Trump has repeatedly extended deadlines for reopening the strait, reflecting both escalating tensions and ongoing negotiations. Analysts warn that further aggression could destabilize the Middle East, disrupt global energy markets, and intensify the humanitarian crisis across affected regions.

The situation remains fluid, with global attention focused on Tehran’s response, US military positioning, and the broader implications for international security and oil markets.

Trump threatens ‘hell’ for Iran over Hormuz Strait as deadline approaches

US Secret Service Investigates Gunfire Reported Near White House

The United States Secret Service is investigating reports of gunfire near the White House in Washington, D.C., early Sunday morning, prompting a swift law enforcement response and a temporary security lockdown in the area.

The incident occurred shortly after midnight local time when officers responded to reports of shots fired in the vicinity of Lafayette Park, a public green space directly north of the presidential residence. Security personnel from the Secret Service, alongside the Metropolitan Police Department and U.S. Park Police, conducted a thorough search of the park and surrounding streets.

So far, no suspect has been apprehended, and authorities report that no injuries occurred. Investigators are currently seeking information on a possible vehicle and person of interest connected to the reports. (wtop.com)

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President Donald Trump was in Washington for the weekend. While White House operations remained normal, officials confirmed that a heightened security posture was enacted following the incident. Temporary road closures around the White House and Lafayette Park were lifted after the initial sweep. (wtop.com)

A spokesperson for the Secret Service emphasized that all reports of gunfire near the White House are treated with the utmost seriousness due to the sensitive nature of the location. Authorities continue to investigate whether the incident was a targeted threat or unrelated violence in the area.

Residents and commuters in downtown Washington were advised to avoid the area while law enforcement conducted the investigation. Security remains tight around federal government buildings as the Secret Service pursues leads and monitors the situation.

The Secret Service has confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, and the public has been urged to report any relevant information that could aid the authorities.

US Secret Service Investigates Gunfire Reported Near White House

Netanyahu Condemns ‘Christian Persecution’ in Nigeria in Easter Message

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has again condemned what he described as Christian persecution in Nigeria, using his Easter message to spotlight growing concerns over religious violence.

In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Netanyahu extended Easter greetings to Christians in Israel, the United States, and across the world, while raising alarm over what he termed the continued targeting of Christian communities in several countries.

He listed Nigeria alongside Syria, Lebanon, and Turkey as regions where Christians face persecution. However, he maintained that Israel remains the only country in the Middle East where the Christian population is protected and continues to grow.

The remarks come amid renewed global attention on insecurity in Nigeria, particularly following recent attacks on churches in Kaduna State, where worshippers were killed and abducted during Easter celebrations.

Netanyahu also referenced ongoing tensions in the region, noting that Israel continues to face missile threats targeting Jerusalem, even during the Easter period.

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Despite these security challenges, he said Israel remains committed to protecting religious freedom and ensuring that people of all faiths can worship without fear.

“Even under fire, our commitment is unwavering: to defend life, to safeguard liberty, and to ensure that every believer can pray in peace,” he said.

The Israeli leader stressed that Israel guarantees freedom of worship and provides a safe environment for Christians, especially during important religious observances like Easter.

He also expressed hope that the Easter season would bring renewal, faith, and hope to Christians worldwide.

The latest statement follows similar remarks made by Netanyahu during Christmas, when he condemned attacks on Christians in Nigeria and called for an end to violence against religious communities.

Analysts say the repeated statements highlight increasing international concern over religious violence in Nigeria, as well as broader issues of security and protection of vulnerable communities.

Netanyahu Condemns ‘Christian Persecution’ in Nigeria in Easter Message