Trump Says US Navy Acting ‘Like Pirates’ During Iran War Operations

US President Donald Trump has made a controversial statement regarding American naval operations during the ongoing conflict with Iran, saying the US Navy is acting “like pirates.”

Speaking at an event in Florida on Friday evening, Trump referred to a recent operation in which American forces seized a ship allegedly linked to Iran. He said the vessel, its cargo, and the oil onboard had all been taken into US custody.

“We are like pirates. We are kind of acting like sea pirates, but we are not playing games,” Trump remarked during his speech.

According to Reuters, US and Israeli forces have seized multiple Iranian-linked ships and oil tankers in Asian waters since the conflict began. The operations are part of broader efforts to pressure Iran economically and militarily during the ongoing war.

Meanwhile, Iran has effectively restricted maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes. The United States has also imposed its own blockade measures against Iranian ports.

The conflict began on February 28 after US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets, prompting retaliatory attacks by Iran on Israel and Gulf states hosting American military bases.

Analysts warn that continued disruption in the Gulf region could further increase global oil prices, as the Strait of Hormuz handles nearly 20 percent of the world’s oil and gas shipments