The decision to close came at a time of heightened tensions in the region. Security services assess that infrastructure in that area could be a target in the event of further escalation. The bridge, approximately 25 kilometers long, represents the only land connection between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain and holds significant importance for daily traffic of people and goods. The closure of the bridge followed an escalation of tensions, after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened attacks on Iranian infrastructure, while Iran warned of a "devastating" retaliation if its civilian facilities are hit. We recall that over the weekend, Trump issued an ultimatum to Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz and threatened to otherwise bomb Iran's public infrastructure. Trump stated that Iran has until Tuesday at 8:00 PM Eastern Time (ET) to reach an agreement.