Trump Authorizes Lethal Force Against Iranian Minelayers; U.S. Boosts Naval Presence

President Donald Trump has significantly escalated the U.S. military posture in the Middle East, issuing explicit "shoot and kill" orders to the U.S. Navy for any Iranian vessels suspected of laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz. Alongside these new rules of engagement, the President has ordered a tripling of minesweeping operations in the critical waterway. The naval buildup is being supported by the arrival of the USS George HW Bush (CVN-77), marking the third U.S. aircraft carrier currently operating in the theater. International support for the maritime mission has also materialized, with Italy's navy chief of staff confirming the deployment of four vessels, including two minesweepers, to assist in clearing the Strait. This move comes as President Trump suggested Iran may have used a recent two-week ceasefire to rebuild military capacity and reload weaponry. Despite the increased tension, the President indicated that a diplomatic deal would only be pursued when it is "appropriate and good" for the United States. On the legislative front, the administration is approaching a critical deadline under the War Powers Resolution. President Trump noted that approximately one week remains to secure Congressional authorization for continued military operations. Meanwhile, enforcement of sanctions continues on the high seas, with U.S. military personnel recently boarding the tanker Majestic X in the Indian Ocean for allegedly transporting Iranian oil.