3 min readUpdated: Mar 22, 2026 06:31 AM ISTTrump on Saturday said the US is allowing a "temporary waiver" to Iran to sell oil already at sea.US President Donald Trump Sunday threatned Iran that it will “hit and obliterate” its power plants if Tehran doesn’t fully open the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours.In a post on Truth Social, Trump said, “If Iran doesn’t FULLY OPEN, WITHOUT THREAT, the Strait of Hormuz, within 48 HOURS from this exact point in time, the United States of America will hit and obliterate their various POWER PLANTS, STARTING WITH THE BIGGEST ONE FIRST!”The threat comes a day after Trump granted Iran a “temporary waiver” to sell oil already at sea and said that he is considering winding down its military efforts in the Middle East.Oil prices have soared since Iran closed passage of ships from Strait of Hormuz in reponse to US-Israeli strikes that hit the nation first on February 28. It’s been four weeks since the war started and shows no sign of restraint. Israel and Iran have continued to raise their offensive against each other.In its most recent attack, Iran fired missiles towards Israel’s Dimona, where it hit a building causing significant damage. Iran said this attack comes in response to Israel’s earlier attack on Natanz, site of an Iranian nuclear facility.Trump also said that the responsibility of for safeguarding the Strait of Hormuz should lie with nations dependent on the route, adding that the United States is not one of them.“The Hormuz Strait will have to be guarded and policed, as necessary, by other Nations who use it — The United States does not! If asked, we will help these Countries in their Hormuz efforts.”Story continues below this adTrump on Saturday said the US is allowing a “temporary waiver” to Iran to sell oil already at sea. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that this waiver does not permit any new purchases or production, but is limited to oil already in transit. He further argued that, despite appearances, the measure would not strengthen Iran, stressing that Tehran would face difficulty accessing any revenue generated.In his criticism of New York Times analyst, Trump in another Truth Social post said that US has “blown” Iran off of the map weeks ahead of schedule. He added that now Iran wants to make a deal but he doesn’t.“Their leadership is gone, their navy and air force are dead, they have absolutely no defense, and they want to make a deal. I don’t!”The Express Global Desk at The Indian Express delivers authoritative, verified, and context-driven coverage of key international developments shaping global politics, policy, and migration trends. The desk focuses on stories with direct relevance for Indian and global audiences, combining breaking news with in-depth explainers and analysis. A major focus area of the desk is US immigration and visa policy, including developments related to student visas, work permits, permanent residency pathways, executive actions, and court rulings. The Global Desk also closely tracks Canada’s immigration, visa, and study policies, covering changes to study permits, post-study work options, permanent residence programmes, and regulatory updates affecting migrants and international students. All reporting from the Global Desk adheres to The Indian Express’ editorial standards, relying on official data, government notifications, court documents, and on-record sources. The desk prioritises clarity, accuracy, and accountability, ensuring readers can navigate complex global systems with confidence. Core Team The Express Global Desk is led by a team of experienced journalists and editors with deep expertise in international affairs and migration policy: Aniruddha Dhar – Senior Assistant Editor with extensive experience in global affairs, international politics, and editorial leadership. Nischai Vats – Deputy Copy Editor specialising in US politics, US visa and immigration policy, and policy-driven international coverage. Mashkoora Khan – Sub-editor focusing on global developments, with a strong emphasis on Canada visa, immigration, and study-related policy coverage. ... Read MoreStay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram© IE Online Media Services Pvt LtdTags:donald trumpIran-Israel War