President Donald Trump has ordered the U.S. Navy to shoot and kill any boat laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz. This order comes as the president vows to step up efforts to clear the critical energy waterway amid a growing standoff with Iran.
The U.S. military has seized another tanker associated with the smuggling of Iranian oil, as Trump continues to ratchet up pressure to reopen the crucial sea passage. The Strait of Hormuz is a vital corridor through which 20% of all crude oil and natural gas traded passes.
President Trump claimed the U.S. has total control over the waterway, stating it is sealed up tight until Iran is able to make a deal, though he provided no evidence for the claim. Additionally, he underscored alleged infighting within Iran's leadership, suggesting that Iranians are having a very hard time figuring out who their leader is.
Tensions continue to rise as Iranian leaders have stated there can be no peace talks while the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports continues.