Donald Trump on Thursday ordered the US Navy to destroy any vessel laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz, signaling a sharp escalation in regional tensions. At the same time, US forces boarded an Iranian-linked oil tanker in the Indian Ocean, reinforcing Washington’s maritime crackdown.
In his remarks, Trump ruled out the use of nuclear weapons against Iran but warned that time for a resolution remains limited. Although a ceasefire continues, negotiations have stalled, with Tehran refusing talks amid an ongoing US naval blockade of its ports.
Naval Build-Up and Tanker Seizure Intensify Pressure
Meanwhile, the USS George H.W. Bush has entered the Middle East, joining two other US aircraft carriers already operating in the region. One carrier remains active in the Red Sea, while another continues broader regional operations, highlighting an expanded US military presence.
Additionally, the Pentagon confirmed that US forces intercepted and boarded the supertanker M/T Majestic X, reportedly carrying around two million barrels of Iranian crude. Officials described the operation as part of efforts to enforce sanctions and restrict Iran’s oil exports.
Despite these measures, shipping data indicates continued Iranian crude movement through the Gulf, suggesting the blockade has not fully halted exports.
Clashes, Revenue Moves, and Pentagon Shake-Up
Simultaneously, Iranian media reported air defense activity in Tehran, claiming systems responded to perceived threats. Iran also announced it had begun collecting toll revenues from vessels passing through the strategic waterway, signaling tighter control.
In Washington, internal shifts continued as Navy Secretary John Phelan was removed following reported disagreements within the Pentagon. Officials confirmed leadership changes as part of broader wartime adjustments.
Overall, developments reflect intensifying geopolitical strain as both sides assert control over critical maritime routes.
