Strait of Hormuz cleared of Iranian mines: CentCom chief Admiral Cooper

US Central Command commander Admiral Brad Cooper announced that US forces have cleared Iranian mines from the Strait of Hormuz, allowing international shipping lanes to reopen. According to CentCom, US forces assisted nearly 1,500 commercial vessels, carrying about 750 million barrels of crude oil to global markets. Iran's oil exports were halted from mid-July 2026 onwards due to the US naval blockade.

Approximately 75 vessels attempted to breach the blockade and were turned around by US forces, while three refused to comply and were disabled. Despite this, Iran has exported zero oil from its shores since the blockade began. The mine clearance significantly reduces physical threats to commercial shipping and could restore confidence among stakeholders.

The US maintains overwhelming air and naval superiority in the area, enabling the interception of potential threats. While Iran's ability to shut down the Strait of Hormuz has been diminished, it could still pose residual threats through drones, small boats, or uncharted mines. Commercial insurers and operators will assess the new risk levels before resuming full operations.

Iran has rejected US claims of mine clearance, insisting the strait remains under its control. The clearance of the mines represents progress in restoring safer commercial access through one of the world's most vital energy chokepoints while maintaining effective pressure on Iran's exports.