US Launches Mine-Clearing Ops Amid Rising Threats in Strait of Hormuz

The United States has initiated a high-stakes naval operation to clear sea mines in the crucial Strait of Hormuz, a maritime chokepoint that handles one-fifth of global oil and LNG traffic. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that guided missile destroyers USS Frank E. Peterson and USS Michael Murphy will spearhead the effort, aiming to establish a "safe pathway" for the free flow of maritime commerce. The operation follows Iran's near-closure of the strait amid escalating tensions after th