U.S. Navy Conducts Mine-Clearing Operations in Strait of Hormuz

Two U.S. Navy destroyers have transited the Strait of Hormuz to commence mine-clearing operations in the vital waterway, U.S. Central Command announced.

The destroyers operated in the Arabian Gulf, with CENTCOM confirming that additional U.S. forces, including underwater drones, will join the clearance effort.

President Trump stated on Saturday that the U.S. was clearing mines from the strait as a "favor to Countries all over the world" and reported that all of Iran's mine-laying ships had been destroyed.

U.S. officials previously indicated that at least a dozen underwater mines, manufactured in Iran, had been placed in the waterway. Drones and missiles were also reportedly used to impede passage.

Approximately 20% of the world's oil supply is shipped through the Strait of Hormuz. Maritime traffic has seen a partial resumption following a recent ceasefire, though it remains low.