BREITBART NEWS; IPresident Donald Trump warned Monday that Iran would be “blown off the face of the earth” if it attacks U.S. vessels carrying out Project Freedom, as Iranian forces fired missiles, drones, and deployed fast-attack boats against commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz — prompting U.S. forces to destroy six Iranian boats — while Tehran launched a major barrage at the United Arab Emirates.

The escalation unfolded on the first day of what the Trump administration has dubbed “Project Freedom,” a U.S.-led initiative announced Sunday to begin moving hundreds of stranded commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran has effectively choked off maritime traffic since the conflict began on February 28.

Speaking to Fox News earlier Monday, President Trump made clear the United States would respond decisively to any Iranian attempt to strike vessels participating in the mission.

“They’ll be blown off the face of the earth,” Trump warned.

He underscored the U.S. military’s continued readiness.

“We have more weapons and ammunition at a much higher grade than we had before,” Trump said. “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.”