Trump gives ‘shoot and kill’ order against boats laying mines as control over Strait of Hormuz escalates

US forces have boarded a ship carrying Iranian oil in the Indian Ocean, the US military says.

This is just as Donald Trump says the US has “total control” over the Strait of Hormuz – and says they will “shoot and kill” any boat laying mines there.

Earlier, the deputy speaker of the Iranian parliament said Iran had received the first tolls from shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

He did not say who paid the money or the amount.

Trump has threatened to target any ship that paid toll to Iran.

In a post on social media, Trump said the US Navy has been directed to use force against any small boats suspected of laying mines aimed at disrupting maritime traffic through the strait.

He insisted there should be “no hesitation,” adding that US mine-clearing operations in the area are already ongoing and being intensified.

He further stated that military mine-clearing activities in the region would continue “at a tripled up level,” signalling a stronger US naval posture in the Gulf amid rising confrontation with Iran.

The announcement came shortly after the US military reportedly seized another tanker linked to Iranian oil smuggling operations.