TAMPA / WASHINGTON D.C. April 11, 2026 — U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has confirmed the start of a large-scale mine clearance mission in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most vital oil transit routes.
Two U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyers — the USS Frank E. Peterson (DDG 121) and the USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) — began operations on April 11 after transiting the strait. The mission targets sea mines reportedly deployed by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) during the recent six-week conflict.
The operation is aimed at ensuring safe passage for commercial shipping through the narrow waterway, which carries nearly one-fifth of global oil supplies. CENTCOM described the move as necessary to “restore freedom of navigation” and reduce risks to international energy markets still reeling from weeks of instability.
The development comes as high-level U.S.-Iran peace negotiations in Islamabad, Pakistan, stretch into a marathon 15-hour session with no immediate signs of conclusion. U.S. Vice President JD Vance is leading the American side, while Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf heads Tehran’s delegation, with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif acting as mediator.
Pentagon officials stressed that the mine-clearing effort is defensive in nature and not linked to any offensive action, but analysts warn it could complicate the delicate diplomatic talks currently underway in Pakistan.
Oil prices remained elevated Sunday morning amid uncertainty over the strait’s security.
Life News Agency will continue to monitor developments from CENTCOM and the ongoing trilateral talks in Islamabad.
About The Author
