Trump gives Iran 48 hours to open Strait of Hormuz as search continues for missing US pilot

TEL AVIV, Israel — The search for a missing pilot continues in Iran as the American military conducts operations for the second consecutive day. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump issues a stern warning to Tehran regarding the impending deadline to reopen the Strait of Hormuz: “Time is running out.”

The recent military conflict involving the U.S. warplane, identified as an F-15E Strike Eagle by Iran, has escalated tensions. Iran has announced a reward for anyone who turns in the captured pilot. Additionally, Iran’s joint military command claims to have targeted two U.S. Black Hawk helicopters, although this information could not be independently verified by The Associated Press.

The ongoing conflict, initiated by joint U.S.-Israel strikes in late February, has resulted in significant casualties, disrupted global markets, obstructed vital shipping routes, and caused a surge in fuel prices. With Iran launching retaliatory attacks, the situation shows no signs of abating.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vows to continue military operations, targeting key facilities that fund Iran’s war efforts. Despite Trump’s claims of defeating Iran, recent events, such as the drone attack on Oracle’s headquarters in Dubai, indicate ongoing hostilities.

The conflict has raised concerns about potential war crimes as both sides target civilian infrastructure. Recent airstrikes near Iran’s Bushehr nuclear facility underscore the escalating tensions, with international efforts, led by Pakistan, aiming to broker a ceasefire and facilitate diplomatic negotiations.

Trump’s ultimatum to Iran, delivered via social media, emphasizes the urgency of resolving the crisis. As the search for the missing pilot intensifies, the region braces for further escalation, with a second U.S. Air Force aircraft reportedly downed in the Middle East.

Iran’s threats to disrupt strategic waterways and target U.S. tech companies highlight the volatile nature of the conflict. With casualties mounting and diplomatic efforts underway, the situation remains precarious, with global implications.

The article was contributed by Jon Gambrell in Dubai, Samy Magdy in Cairo, Munir Ahmed in Islamabad, Dasha Litvinova in Tallinn, and various reporters in Washington.