TEHRAN – Iran has formally rejected the 48-hour ultimatum issued by U.S. President Donald Trump. Iranian military commander General Ali Abdollahi Aliabadi called the U.S. threat an act of "powerlessness, nervousness, and stupidity."

"If the American-Zionist enemy commits aggression, we will strike all their infrastructure without limits," Aliabadi firmly stated.

An Ultimatum That Backfires

Trump had previously written on Truth Social: "48 hours before hell will rain down on them." However, Aliabadi turned the threat around: "The gates of hell will open for you."

Asia Economia Times assesses that such ultimatums are only effective if the adversary feels cornered. On the contrary, Iran reads the U.S. nervousness after six weeks of war have failed to achieve a quick victory.

Petrochemical Facility Targeted

U.S.-Israeli strikes in Khuzestan Province targeted the Mahshahr Special Economic Zone. Iranian media reported 5 killed and 170 wounded. This marks a shift in targets from military to Iran's economic infrastructure.

implications for Asia

Iran's rejection prolongs the uncertainty in the Strait of Hormuz. Oil prices are likely to rise again next week, burdening importing nations such as India, China, and Japan.

No diplomatic exit is visible for at least the next 48 hours.