Trump threatens to shoot boats laying mines as tension escalates in Strait of Hormuz

Key Points:

• Two dry bulk carriers, including Tema Express operated by German carrier Hapag-Lloyd, transited the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing conflict, marking the first confirmed passage by a German-operated vessel since hostilities began.
• Journalist Amal Khalil was killed in an airstrike in southern Lebanon while reporting, with rescue efforts reportedly delayed for seven hours, raising concerns of obstruction that may constitute a war crime; Israel acknowledged journalist injuries but denied targeting journalists.
• The United Nations warns that over 30 million people globally could be pushed back into poverty due to the Iran conflict’s impact on energy prices and food security, with disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz affecting oil and fertilizer supplies.
• US President Donald Trump ordered the US Navy to fire on any Iranian boats laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz and announced intensified mine-clearing operations, amid concerns that mine presence could prolong closure of this critical oil shipping route.
• The US and allies continue efforts to maintain freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, including military planning and naval blockades, while oil prices rise on fears of prolonged conflict and disruption in global oil supply.