President Donald Trump has issued a decisive directive to the United States Navy to engage and eliminate any vessels discovered planting mines in the Strait of Hormuz.
This aggressive shift in the rules of engagement aims to protect one of the world's most vital maritime corridors from sabotage.
The order specifically targets small, fast-moving boats identified in the act of deploying explosive devices within the critical shipping lane.
Administration officials stated that the move is a direct response to a surge in hostile activities attributed to Iranian-backed forces in the region.
President Trump announced the new policy through a series of posts on Truth Social, where he demanded international recognition for his administration's bold stance.
He emphasized that the United States will no longer tolerate threats to global energy security or the safety of merchant sailors.
The Navy has already begun ramping up its presence in the Persian Gulf to support expanded mine-clearing operations and surveillance missions.
Commanders on the ground now have the explicit authority to use lethal force when they witness active mine-laying operations.
Military analysts suggest that this directive marks a significant escalation in the long-standing tensions between Washington and Tehran.
While some allies have expressed concern over potential conflict, the White House maintains that proactive defense is necessary to deter further aggression.
Shipping companies have been advised to exercise extreme caution while navigating the Strait as the new protocols take immediate effect.
The Pentagon confirmed that additional carrier strike groups are being positioned to provide air cover and rapid response capabilities if needed.
Critics of the administration argue that the "shoot and kill" order could lead to unintended naval skirmishes or a broader regional war.
However, supporters of the President praise the clarity of the directive as a necessary measure to ensure the free flow of global commerce.
As the Navy implements these new orders, the international community remains on high alert for any immediate Iranian response.
The situation in the Middle East continues to evolve rapidly as the United States asserts its dominance over the strategic waterway.