The US Navy has successfully removed or detonated all mines from international waters in the Strait of Hormuz, according to a statement released by US President Donald Trump on his Truth Social platform. The vital waterway, which historically handled roughly 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas before conflict erupted on February 28, has faced severe disruptions and closures since the onset of US and Israeli air strikes against Iran.
Strait of Hormuz Clearance and Military Enforcement
President Trump stated that the US military has cleared the shipping lane of all explosive devices, though Iran has not yet issued a comment regarding the operation. According to the same platform announcement, Washington has established a strict zero-tolerance policy for the corridor. Trump warned that any ship or vessel attempting to lay new mines will be immediately and systematically destroyed by US forces.
To maintain control over the corridor, the US Space Force is actively monitoring every square inch of the strait, according to Trump. Despite these security measures, the waterway remains a focal point of geopolitical tension, with Iran previously firing on vessels attempting to cross without official permission.
Economic Sanctions and Global Trade Pressures
Following the collapse of a ceasefire and a 60-day deadline outlined in a June Memorandum of Understanding between the US and Iran, the Treasury Department announced a fresh wave of economic sanctions. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that any nation financially partnering with Iran will face international isolation.
Iranian officials have pushed back against the financial restrictions. Iranian Economy Minister Ali Madanizadeh stated that Tehran is fully prepared for the wider sanctions, calling them a precursor to another defeat for the United States. Meanwhile, China—the primary buyer of Iranian oil—formally criticized the measures on Tuesday. Beijing declared its firm opposition to unilateral US sanctions and promised to take all necessary measures to protect its commercial rights ahead of planned talks between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
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