Donald Trump recently stated on Truth Social: ‘I have ordered the United States Navy to shoot and kill any boat, small boats though they may be (Their naval ships are ALL, 159 of them, at the bottom of the sea!), that is putting mines in the waters of the Strait of Hormuz. There is to be no hesitation. Additionally, our mine “sweepers” are clearing the Strait right now. I am hereby ordering that activity to continue, but at a tripled up level!’
Analysis: This statement exhibits a high degree of grotesqueness and detachment from reality. Trump claims that the entire Iranian naval fleet—which he quantifies as 159 ships—is ‘at the bottom of the sea.’ This assertion is factually unsupported by any credible military reporting or independent verification. Furthermore, his claim of ‘total control’ over the Strait of Hormuz is contradicted by the operational reality on the ground, where Iranian forces continue to exert influence, seize vessels, and challenge U.S. maritime dominance. The assertion that the Strait is ‘sealed up tight’ is a rhetorical exaggeration intended to project strength, despite reports of ongoing transit by various international vessels and the continued volatility of the region.
Source: Osint613, April 23, 2026.
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