U.S. President Donald Trump has issued direct orders for the American Navy to use lethal force against Iranian small boats in the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz, dramatically intensifying a geopolitical standoff that threatens global oil markets and shipping routes.
The directive comes as the U.S. military seized another Iranian oil tanker and Israel's defence ministry signalled it stands ready to resume military action against Tehran.
Extreme Measures in Contested Waters
"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," Trump stated on social media Thursday. "There is to be no hesitation. Additionally, our mine sweepers are clearing the Strait right now. I am hereby ordering that activity to continue, but at a tripled up level!"
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints. Roughly 20 per cent of all crude oil and natural gas traded globally passes through these waters, making any disruption a concern for energy markets worldwide—including Canada's own energy sector.
Israel Signals Offensive Readiness
Israel's Defence Minister Katz announced Thursday that the Israeli military is "prepared to resume war with Iran" and awaits a "green light" from Washington. According to official statements following a security assessment, Israeli forces are prepared for both defensive and offensive operations, with targets already marked.
"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." — President Donald Trump
Escalating Confrontations at Sea
The U.S. military released video footage showing American forces aboard the seized oil tanker Majestic X in the Indian Ocean, as tensions mounted Wednesday when Iran's Revolutionary Guard attacked three cargo ships in the strait, seizing two of them.
Trump insisted the U.S. has "total control" over the strait and characterized it as "sealed up tight" pending a deal with Iran. When pressed by reporters about a timeline for resolving the conflict—which he and aides previously suggested could conclude within four to six weeks—Trump resisted pressure. "Don't rush me," he said, citing other prolonged international conflicts as comparison.
Nuclear Option Off the Table
When asked whether nuclear weapons might be deployed against Iran, Trump dismissed the question as "stupid" and stated unequivocally: "No, I wouldn't. We don't need it. A nuclear weapon should never be allowed to be used by anybody."
The escalating tensions come after Iran criticized recent diplomatic efforts as "hypocritical" and "empty," signalling limited prospects for near-term negotiations.
This article is based on reporting from CBC World.