Iran Calls for Human Shields at Power Plants as Trump Deadline Nears

Iranian officials have urged young citizens to form human chains around the country's power plants. This call comes as a deadline set by former US President Donald Trump approaches. President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that 14 million people have "declared their readiness to sacrifice their lives" for Iran's defense. The deadline demands Iran open the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil shipments. Trump has threatened massive strikes on civilian infrastructure if it does not. In Tehran, residents stocked up on basic supplies. State media showed crowds gathering at electricity stations, including Iran's largest plant near the capital. People waved flags and held banners in other cities like Tabriz and Dezful. The escalating situation centers on the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Iran has previously threatened to close it, which could disrupt a major portion of the world's oil supply.