President Donald Trump has said the United States will destroy any vessel found laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions with Iran over the strategically vital waterway.
Gatekeepers News reports that in a post on his Truth Social platform on Thursday, Trump warned that the U.S. Navy had been authorised to act immediately against such activities.
“I have ordered the United States Navy to shoot and kill any boat, small boats though they may be… that is putting mines in the waters of the Strait of Hormuz,” he said. “There is to be no hesitation. Additionally, our mine ‘sweepers’ are clearing the Strait right now.”
The statement comes amid rising tensions as Iran continues to assert control over the narrow shipping lane, a key route for global oil shipments. Tehran has reportedly said it will restrict passage through the strait to only a limited number of approved vessels in response to U.S. pressure and alleged blockades of its ports.
Diplomatic efforts, including peace talks in Islamabad, have reportedly stalled, with Iran yet to confirm participation. The ongoing standoff has raised concerns about global economic stability due to the importance of the route to international energy supply chains.
Trump further intensified his remarks, writing: “Iran is having a very hard time figuring out who their leader is!”
He also claimed the United States maintains “total control” over the Strait of Hormuz and insisted it would only be reopened once Iran agrees to a peace deal.
