US to ‘shoot and kill’ Iranian boats laying mines in Hormuz, Trump says

US President Donald Trump has ordered the United States Navy to “shoot and kill” any Iranian boats attempting to lay mines in the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns over the fragile ceasefire between the two countries.

In a social media post, Trump said US forces are already clearing mines from the waterway and will intensify operations. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route, has become a major flashpoint after Iran temporarily closed it during the recent conflict.

The closure disrupted nearly 20% of global oil and gas supply, driving fuel prices higher and increasing pressure on Washington. Although a ceasefire was reached last month, tensions remain high as the US continues a naval blockade on Iran-linked vessels, while Tehran has detained several foreign ships near the strait.

Iran has demanded the lifting of the blockade before resuming negotiations and has warned it will respond to any US aggression. Despite Trump’s claims of divisions within Iran’s leadership, officials have presented a united stance against US actions.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian rejected suggestions of internal rifts, stressing national unity and vowing a strong response to any threats.

The ongoing standoff and “duelling blockades” have heightened fears of renewed conflict, with no clear timeline for the extended ceasefire.