U.S. Destroyers Cross Strait of Hormuz for Mine Clearance Operations

Two U.S. Navy destroyers transited through the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday as part of mine-clearing operations, according to a statement from U.S. Central Command. The operation was aimed at clearing mines that have been placed in the vital waterway by Iran.

President Trump announced this initiative on his Truth Social account, stating it would benefit global countries. He also claimed all of Iran’s mine-laying ships had been destroyed. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance held talks with Iranian officials in Islamabad for the first time since 1979.

U.S. officials told CBS News that at least a dozen underwater mines were placed in the Strait of Hormuz, based on American intelligence assessments. These include moored naval mines like the Maham 3 and sticking mines such as the Maham 7. The global oil supply is about 20% dependent on this waterway.

During the war, passage for oil tankers and commercial ships was almost halted. Some maritime traffic has resumed since a two-week ceasefire was established between the U.S. and Iran. However, analysts warn that the disruption of the global oil supply could persist for several months due to damaged infrastructure and operational delays in the region.