Trump’s pause buys time. But the Gulf’s deepest vulnerability is now exposed

Rajesh Sharma & Devyani MohanTIMESOFINDIA.COM

Mar 24, 2026 | 18:27 IST

While Trump has signalled a willingness for negotiation, Tehran’s warning has exposed a deeper risk: the Gulf countries' heavy reliance on desalination plants, where any disruption could trigger a devastating crisis for millions

Just two days after US President Donald Trump gave Iran a 48-hour deadline to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to shipping — or face what he called the “obliteration” of its power plants — Washington appears to have stepped back, at least for now.

On Monday (March 23), Trump announced a five-day pause on planned military strikes.

TOI

TOI

Trump’s pause buys time. But the Gulf’s deepest vulnerability is now exposed

While Trump has signalled a willingness for negotiation, Tehran’s warning has exposed a deeper risk: the Gulf countries' heavy reliance on desalination plants, where any disruption could trigger a devastating crisis for millions

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TOI

Trump’s pause buys time. But the Gulf’s deepest vulnerability is now exposed

While Trump has signalled a willingness for negotiation, Tehran’s warning has exposed a deeper risk: the Gulf countries' heavy reliance on desalination plants, where any disruption could trigger a devastating crisis for millions

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