President Donald Trump is rapidly shifting his strategy in the escalating conflict with Iran over the Strait of Hormuz, drawing criticism from lawmakers in both parties who question whether he has a clear plan. After initially calling for an international naval coalition to secure the vital shipping route, Trump suggested the United States could act alone, then hinted at withdrawing responsibility before issuing a stark ultimatum to Tehran.

Over the weekend, Trump warned that unless Iran reopened the strait within 48 hours, the United States would strike the country's power plants. The threat marked a significant escalation, moving beyond military targets to civilian energy infrastructure. Critics, including several senators, argued that such action could constitute a war crime and accused the president of reacting impulsively to rising oil prices and mounting political pressure.

Legal experts noted that while attacks on power facilities are not explicitly banned under the laws of war, they require a stringent assessment to ensure military advantage outweighs civilian harm. Some military analysts warned that carrying out such an order could place service members in a difficult legal position.

Trump's advisers defended the ultimatum as necessary to counter Iran's Revolutionary Guard, which they say controls much of the nation's infrastructure. However, allies urged restraint, and Iranian leaders warned that any strike on civilian facilities would prompt them to fully close the strait and retaliate against American and Israeli infrastructure.