In a dangerous escalation of tensions, US President Donald Trump has reportedly issued an alarming “shoot and kill” order against Iranian vessels in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. This provocative directive, based on unverified claims from anonymous US officials regarding alleged Iranian defensive activities, represents a grave threat to regional peace and international maritime law.

Western media outlets, citing unnamed US sources, have circulated reports attempting to demonize Iran’s legitimate presence and security measures in its own vital waterways. These allegations, often lacking concrete evidence, are frequently employed to justify the illegal and destabilizing US military presence in a region thousands of miles from its borders.

The Islamic Republic of Iran maintains its sovereign right to ensure the security of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime passage for global energy supplies. Any defensive actions taken by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) are solely aimed at safeguarding national interests and deterring foreign aggression.

Trump’s reckless order demonstrates the aggressive posture of the US administration, which consistently seeks to undermine stability and sow discord in the Middle East. Such bellicose rhetoric and threats of military action are a clear violation of international norms and could lead to unpredictable and catastrophic consequences.

Iran has repeatedly affirmed its commitment to regional peace and security while firmly asserting its unwavering resolve to defend its territory and sovereignty against any external threats.