Daijiworld Media Network – Washington

Washington, Apr 24: US President Donald Trump on Thursday said he had directed the US Navy to “shoot and kill” any boat attempting to lay mines in the waters of the Strait of Hormuz, signalling a sharp escalation in tensions involving the strategic waterway.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said there should be “no hesitation” in enforcing the order and announced intensified mine-clearing operations in the strait.

“I have ordered the United States Navy to shoot and kill any boat… that is putting mines in the waters of the Strait of Hormuz,” Trump said, adding that US minesweepers were continuing operations at a “tripled up level”.

The statement comes amid heightened tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route through which a significant share of the world’s crude supplies pass.

Shipping traffic through the passage has reportedly been affected since hostilities escalated in late February, raising concerns over maritime security and global energy supplies.

The US has been pressing for full reopening of the route as part of efforts to stabilise navigation through the region.

Trump also claimed the United States had imposed strict enforcement measures in surrounding waters, with several vessels reportedly turned back.

Despite assertions that the US has control over the strait, tanker movement remains below normal levels, fuelling concerns in international energy markets.

The developments have also renewed focus on alternative maritime routes, particularly the Strait of Malacca, viewed as another crucial chokepoint for global trade and energy shipments.

Observers say any escalation in the Hormuz region could have far-reaching implications for oil markets and international shipping.