President Donald Trump has ordered the US Navy to take strong action in the Strait of Hormuz. On April 23, 2026, he posted on Truth Social that the Navy must “shoot and kill” any boat trying to place mines in the important waterway. He said there should be zero hesitation in stopping these threats.
About one-fifth of the world’s oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz every day. Any problem here can raise global oil prices and affect fuel costs everywhere.
This order comes during ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran. The two countries have conflicted, including a naval blockade by the US. Iran has attacked or seized some ships and reportedly placed sea mines in the strait.
The US military has already sunk many Iranian mine-laying boats and large warships earlier in the fighting. Trump noted that Iran’s main navy ships are now at the bottom of the sea.
Trump also said US mine-sweeping ships are working to clear the area right now. He ordered these clearing operations to increase greatly, “at a tripled-up level.” Reports suggest it could take several months to fully remove all the mines because some are hard to find.
The goal is to keep the Strait safe for international shipping. Free passage through Hormuz helps keep energy supplies flowing and supports the world economy. Trump has stressed that no one should be allowed to threaten this key route with mines or attacks.
This latest move shows the US is ready to use force to protect sea lanes while peace talks continue.
