Iran on Tuesday said it has cut off all diplomatic and indirect communication channels with the United States, escalating tensions hours after US President Donald Trump warned of catastrophic consequences if Tehran failed to agree to a ceasefire.
According to Tehran Times, Iran announced an immediate halt to message exchanges with Washington as the conflict, which began on February 28, entered its sixth week with no sign of de-escalation. The US has been pressing Tehran to reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, whose closure has disrupted global oil supplies and shipping routes.
Tensions surged after Trump issued a stark ultimatum, setting a deadline of 8 pm Tuesday (5:30 am IST Wednesday) for Iran to end its blockade. He warned that key infrastructure, including bridges and power plants, could be targeted if Tehran did not comply. In a social media post, Trump said, "A whole civilisation will die tonight," signalling the gravity of the situation.
Iran, however, hardened its position, warning of retaliatory strikes against US allies in the Gulf. Officials said cities dependent on power and desalinated water could face severe disruption if attacked.
US-led strikes have intensified, hitting transport infrastructure, an airport and oil facilities, including Kharg Island, Iran's main export hub. Meanwhile, Iran's Khatam al-Anbiya command warned it could target US-linked energy, communication and technology assets in the region.