The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that two US Navy guided-missile destroyers, USS Frank E. Petersen and USS Michael Murphy, have crossed the Strait of Hormuz. According to a statement posted on X, the operation aims to verify that the waterway is free from naval mines allegedly planted by Iran.

CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper stated in another post that the US has begun establishing a new maritime route to promote the free flow of commerce. He added that this secure route will soon be shared with the maritime industry to facilitate safe navigation in the region.

The statement, citing BBC as a source, indicates that the operation is part of broader efforts to ensure maritime security and maintain open trade routes through one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes.