Trump Orders U.S. Navy to 'Shoot and Kill' Iranian Boats Laying Mines in Strait of Hormuz

President Trump issued a directive on Truth Social ordering the U.S. Navy to "shoot and kill" any small Iranian boats deploying mines in the Strait of Hormuz, adding "there is to be no hesitation." The order came shortly after U.S. forces seized another tanker associated with Iranian oil smuggling, escalating tensions over the strategic waterway through which 20% of all crude oil and natural gas traded passes. Trump also stated that U.S. mine sweepers are continuing to clear the waterway. The directive represents a significant escalation in the maritime standoff with Iran over the world's most critical oil transit point, issued via social media rather than through normal military command channels. The order has potential implications for global energy markets, regional stability, and the risk of armed conflict with Iran.

"There is to be no hesitation" — Trump's directive to the U.S. Navy regarding Iranian boats deploying mines in the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing immediate lethal force without delay