Trump Orders Military to Target Iranian Boats in Hormuz

On Thursday, President Donald Trump ordered the U.S. military to shoot and kill small Iranian boats that are obstructing traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. This directive comes as Iran has displayed its capability to disrupt maritime traffic in the region.

Trump announced a ceasefire in Lebanon, extending it for three weeks, while tensions with Iran escalated following the U.S. military's seizure of a tanker linked to Iranian oil smuggling. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical passage for 20% of the world's crude oil and natural gas trade.

Trump also mentioned the deployment of mines in the strait, with U.S. minesweepers tasked to clear the area. The U.S. military's actions are part of a broader strategy to maintain pressure on Iran, which has been accused of attacking cargo ships in the region.

Trump noted a leadership rift within Iran, complicating diplomatic negotiations, while U.S. forces continue to operate in the region with three aircraft carriers present.