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3. Trump Threatens Iran with “Total Destruction” if It Targets U.S. Forces in Hormuz Operation

U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday issued a stark warning to Iran, vowing it would be “blown off the face of the Earth” if it attacks American vessels involved in the ongoing “Project Freedom” operation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking in an interview with Fox News, Trump escalated his rhetoric as tensions deepen around the strategic waterway, where U.S. forces are working to secure maritime traffic amid Iranian threats.

“If they attack our ships, they will be blown off the face of the Earth,” Trump said, signaling a readiness to respond militarily if Tehran directly confronts U.S. operations.

Escalation around “Project Freedom”

The warning comes as Washington pushes forward with “Project Freedom,” a military-backed initiative aimed at ensuring the passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy routes.

In a separate post on his Truth Social platform on Monday, Trump accused Iran of targeting vessels linked to countries not involved in the conflict, including a South Korean cargo ship.

“Iran has taken some shots at unrelated nations… including a South Korean cargo ship,” he wrote, adding that such actions could prompt broader international involvement.

Trump suggested that Seoul may need to join the U.S.-led effort, stating: “Perhaps it’s time for South Korea to come and join the mission.”

Clashes at sea

According to the president, U.S. forces have already engaged Iranian assets in the area.

“We’ve shot down seven small boats, or ‘fast boats,’ as they call them,” Trump said, describing what he framed as attempts by Iranian units to threaten maritime traffic.

Despite these incidents, Trump maintained that no significant damage had been recorded to vessels transiting the strait, with the exception of the reported targeting of the South Korean ship.

Military buildup continues

Trump also underscored that the U.S. military presence in the region is being reinforced, highlighting what he described as a significant advantage in capability and readiness.

“We have more weapons and ammunition at a much higher grade than we had before,” he said. “We have the best equipment… bases all over the world… all stocked up.”

The remarks point to continued U.S. preparation for potential escalation, even as diplomatic efforts with Iran remain stalled.

Pressure on Tehran

While adopting a hardline stance, Trump also suggested that Iran’s position in negotiations may be weakening.

He said Tehran has become “much more malleable” in ongoing discussions, implying that sustained military and economic pressure could force concessions.

Next steps

Trump announced that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine will hold a press conference on Tuesday to provide further details on the situation.

The developments mark a significant escalation in rhetoric and posture, as the United States signals it is prepared to defend its maritime operation by force, raising the risk of a broader confrontation in the Gulf.