Washington, D.C. – US President Donald Trump has claimed that he has ordered the US Navy to take direct action against any vessels suspected of laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy chokepoint, as tensions in the region continue to intensify.
The statement, posted on his social media platform Truth Social, adds to a series of increasingly forceful remarks from the administration regarding maritime security and Iran-linked activity in the Gulf.
“No Hesitation” Directive for US Navy
Trump said he has instructed US naval forces to act without delay against any boats attempting to deploy mines in the strategic waterway.
According to his post, the order includes authorization to “shoot and kill” suspected vessels involved in mining operations, though no official Pentagon documentation has been released confirming such a directive.
He also stated that mine-clearing operations in the region are already underway and being expanded, describing them as part of a broader effort to secure global shipping lanes.
Claims of Expanded US Naval Control
In additional remarks, Trump claimed that the United States has “total control” over the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that maritime traffic is being closely monitored and regulated by US naval forces.
He further described the waterway as “sealed up tight” until Iran agrees to a broader diplomatic arrangement, linking maritime access to ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important oil transit routes, with a significant portion of global crude shipments passing through it daily. Any disruption to traffic in the area is considered a major risk to global energy markets.
Mine-Sweeping Operations and Military Activity
Trump also said US mine-sweeping operations are active in the region at an increased pace, although no independent confirmation has been provided regarding the scale or scope of such operations.
Defense officials have not publicly detailed any new escalation of naval activity, and there has been no official verification of expanded operational control over the Strait.
The White House has also not released further clarification on the president’s statements.
Iran Leadership and Internal Divisions Claim
Alongside his military remarks, Trump made political comments about Iran’s internal structure, suggesting divisions within the country’s leadership between what he described as “hardliners” and “moderates.”
He claimed that Iran is currently experiencing uncertainty over its political direction, though he did not provide evidence to support these assertions.
Iranian authorities have not yet issued a formal response to the latest comments.
Strategic Waterway Under Global Watch
The Strait of Hormuz is widely considered one of the most sensitive maritime corridors in the world, serving as a key passage for global oil exports.
Any perceived threat to navigation in the area typically triggers immediate international concern due to its potential impact on energy prices and global supply chains.
Recent tensions in the region have already contributed to volatility in oil markets, with shipping companies and insurers closely monitoring developments.
Rising Geopolitical Pressure
Trump’s remarks come amid broader geopolitical strain involving the United States, Iran, and allied regional actors. The situation continues to evolve alongside ongoing diplomatic efforts and military posturing in the Gulf.
While Washington maintains pressure through security operations and sanctions, Tehran has repeatedly emphasized its sovereignty over regional waterways and rejected external control claims.
