U.S. Forces Initiate Mine Clearance in Strait of Hormuz to Ensure Safe Passage
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has commenced operations to clear mines in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical international sea passage. On April 11, two U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyers, USS Frank E. Peterson and USS Michael Murphy, transited the strait and operated in the Arabian Gulf. This mission aims to remove sea mines laid by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, ensuring the strait remains open for global commerce. Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of CENTCOM, stated that the operation will establish a new safe passage for maritime industry, promoting the free flow of trade. Additional U.S. forces, including underwater drones, are expected to join the clearance efforts in the coming days.