U.S. destroys seven Iranian boats as Trump pushes global maritime mission

United States forces have destroyed seven Iranian small boats in the Strait of Hormuz, President Donald Trump announced on Monday, marking a fresh escalation in efforts to secure one of the world’s most critical maritime routes.

Trump said the strikes were carried out under “Project Freedom,” a U.S.-led initiative aimed at safeguarding commercial shipping through the strategic waterway, which has faced repeated disruptions amid heightened tensions with Iran.

In a brief statement, the president accused Iranian forces of harassing and attacking vessels from neutral countries, citing a recent incident involving a South Korean cargo ship.

“Perhaps it’s time for South Korea to come and join the mission,” Trump said, calling on international partners to support efforts to stabilise the Gulf’s shipping lanes.

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage through which about 20 per cent of global oil supply is transported, has long been a geopolitical flashpoint.

Iranian fast-attack craft, often referred to as part of Tehran’s “mosquito fleet,” have been linked to swarming tactics, mine deployment and harassment of commercial vessels.

U.S. officials maintained that the latest action was defensive, stressing that operations are focused on protecting maritime commerce rather than provoking a broader conflict.

Iran has, however, pushed back against such claims, insisting it has the right to respond to what it describes as provocative U.S. naval activities in the region.

Further details are expected at a Pentagon briefing, where Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine are scheduled to address the media.

The development comes amid ongoing U.S. pressure on Tehran, including restrictions targeting Iranian maritime activity, as Washington seeks to contain tensions while maintaining a fragile regional balance.