New Delhi, April 23 -- US President Donald Trump on Thursday (April 23) has issued a sharply escalatory directive, ordering the Navy to use lethal force against any boats suspected of laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most critical oil transit chokepoints.

In his Truth Social post, Trump said he had instructed the Navy to "shoot and kill any boat" involved in mine-laying activity, including what he described as "small boats."

He added that there should be "no hesitation" in responding to such threats.

Trump also claimed that US naval forces are already conducting mine-sweeping operations in the region and said he has ordered those efforts to be expanded "at a tripled up level."

The statement comes amid heightene...