Middle East Politics World

Trump's 'shoot and kill' order

Trump's 'shoot and kill' order

In a series of Truth Social posts, President Trump warned that there would be 'no hesitation' in using lethal force against Iranian vessels obstructing trade.

The order follows reports that the IRGC has been deploying sea mines to enforce its own blockade of the Persian Gulf.

U.S. minesweepers are reportedly working at a 'tripled up level' to clear the shipping lanes.

Military analysts warn that the 'shoot to kill' policy significantly increases the risk of a direct naval clash between the two powers.

Donald Trump
President of the United States (2017–2021; since 2025)
United States Navy
Maritime branch of the United States military
Strait of Hormuz
Strait between the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf
Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps
Military organization to protect the political system of the Islamic Republic in Iran, designated as a terror organization by multiple countries