Trump Orders US Military to ‘Shoot and Kill’ Iranian Boats in Strait of Hormuz

President Donald Trump has ordered the U.S. Military to “shoot and kill” any Iranian boat deploying mines in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions in the vital oil shipping route. The directive comes amid a deepening standoff with Iran, which has seized commercial vessels and increased its military presence in the waterway.

In a series of statements on Truth Social, Trump declared that he had given the order to the U.S. Navy to shoot and kill small Iranian boats that lay mines to choke traffic through the strait. He emphasized there should be “no hesitation” in carrying out the directive. The president also announced that U.S. Minesweepers would continue clearing the strait “at a tripled up level.”

Trump asserted that the United States now has total control over the Strait of Hormuz, stating that “no ship can enter or leave without the approval of the United States Navy.” He described the situation as the strait being “sealed up tight” until Iran agrees to a deal.

The U.S. Has imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports in the region as part of its strategy to pressure Tehran into negotiations. U.S. Central Command reported that it has directed 31 ships to turn around or return to port as part of the blockade efforts.

Iran has responded by capturing commercial vessels, including the tankers MSC Francesca and Epaminondas, accusing them of attempting to cross the strait without permits. Iranian authorities have shared video of commandos boarding ships and have stated that their naval forces are preventing the U.S. Navy from approaching.

The escalating conflict has raised concerns about the security of global oil supplies, as the Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for approximately one-fifth of the world’s petroleum consumption. International observers have urged both sides to return to diplomatic talks to avoid further escalation.

Pope Leo XIV recently urged the United States and Iran to resume negotiations to end the conflict and condemned capital punishment during a press conference en route from Africa.

The situation remains fluid, with both the U.S. And Iran maintaining hardline positions. Analysts warn that continued military posturing increases the risk of miscalculation and potential open conflict in the region.