Trump orders US Navy to destroy mine-laying boats in Strait of Hormuz

U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday declared that the United States would take decisive military action against any vessel attempting to lay mines in the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump said he has directed the U.S. Navy to “shoot and kill” any such boats, stressing that there should be no hesitation in enforcing the order.

“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 stated.

He also disclosed that U.S. mine-clearing vessels are already operating in the area to secure the vital shipping route.

The directive signals a sharp escalation in tensions, as Washington intensifies pressure on Iran to ensure the continued openness of the critical maritime corridor.