Trump orders US Navy to ‘shoot and kill’ Iranian boats laying mines in global oil route

• Donald Trump orders Navy to use lethal force against mine-laying boats

• Directive targets activity in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil route

• US Navy intensifies mine-clearing operations in the region

• Move signals escalation in US-Iran tensions and potential global impact

President Donald Trump has ordered the United States Navy to use lethal force against any vessel suspected of laying sea mines in the Strait of Hormuz, marking a sharp escalation in tensions between the United States and Iran.

In a statement posted on his official platform, Trump directed naval forces to “shoot and kill any boat” found placing mines in the strategic waterway, adding that there should be “no hesitation” in carrying out the order.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical shipping routes, handling a significant portion of global oil supply. Any disruption in the area has immediate implications for international energy markets and shipping operations.

Trump also confirmed that U.S. naval forces are actively conducting mine-clearing operations in the region, stating that efforts would be intensified to “a tripled up level” to ensure safe passage for vessels.

The directive comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, with the United States accusing Iran of attempting to disrupt maritime traffic through the deployment of sea mines. Iran has not formally responded to the latest order at the time of reporting.

The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, is widely regarded as a choke point for global energy supplies, with millions of barrels of oil passing through it daily. Any escalation in the region is closely monitored by global markets due to its potential to trigger spikes in oil prices.

The order also raises concerns about the risk of direct confrontation between U.S. and Iranian forces, as increased military activity in the area heightens the chances of miscalculation.

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While the U.S. has previously increased its naval presence in the region, the explicit authorization of lethal force signals a more hardline approach to securing the route.

The development is expected to draw international attention in the coming days, as governments and energy markets assess the potential impact on global stability and oil supply chains.