Two United States Navy warships have passed through the Strait of Hormuz as part of a new operation to clear sea mines reportedly laid by Iran, according to United States Central Command.
The transit marks the first such movement since tensions escalated following the recent conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran. The operation is aimed at reopening one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes, through which roughly one fifth of global crude supply flows.
The warships involved, the USS Frank E. Peterson and the USS Michael Murphy, are expected to be joined by additional US assets, including underwater drones, as the mission progresses.
CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper said efforts are underway to establish a secure maritime passage that will soon be shared with global shipping operators to restore commercial activity in the area.
Earlier, Donald Trump stated that the US had begun clearing the strait, describing the move as beneficial to major global economies such as China, Japan, and France. He also warned that Iranian sea mines remain a threat to navigation.
The strategic waterway, located off Iran’s coast, has been largely disrupted since the outbreak of hostilities, impacting global oil supply chains and increasing economic uncertainty worldwide.
Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, with senior officials from the US and Iran reportedly engaging in talks in Pakistan in a bid to de escalate tensions and stabilise the region.
