US President Donald Trump has said he will "blow Iran off the face of the Earth" if they attack US vessels in the Middle East. The stark warning comes astensions spiralin the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes, where the US has launched a major military operation known as“Project Freedom”.

Speaking to Fox news reporter, Trump made clear the US would respond with overwhelming force if Iran targets ships involved in the mission. The operation aims to guide and protect commercial vessels through the volatile waterway, after weeks of attacks and disruption blamed on Tehran. Speaking on Monday, Trump said: “We have more weapons and ammunition at a much higher grade than we had before. We have the best equipment. We have stuff all over the world. We have these bases all over the world. They’re all stocked up with equipment. We can use all of that stuff, and we will, if we need it.” However, he said Iran was showing flexibility in talks and was “much more malleable” under the pressure of the US blockade of its ports.

President Trump issues a new warning to Iran if they attack U.S. vessels implementing "Project Freedom."“They’ll be blown off the face of the earth," he told me.pic.twitter.com/2hhK6pUPCH

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Admiral Brad Cooper, head of US Central Command, said American forces had also destroyed several Iranian “fast boats” operating in the area.

He also warned Tehran to stay clear of US military assets as Washington presses ahead with its operation to secure the Strait of Hormuz.

The US blockade of Iran- aimed at restricting maritime traffic to and from the country - also remains in place, with officials claiming it is “exceeding expectations”.

The developments come as fears grow over the safety of commercial shipping in the region. A South Korean-flagged vessel was reportedly attacked near the strait, according to Chosun Daily, with authorities in Seoul now working to verify the claims.

In a post on Truth Social, the POTUS addressed the incident directly, writing: “Iran has taken some shots at unrelated Nations with respect to the Ship Movement, PROJECT FREEDOM, including a South Korean Cargo Ship.”

Source: Daily Express :: World Feed