US President Donald Trump on Saturday claimed that the United States has begun clearing sea mines in the Strait of Hormuz, saying the effort was a “favour” to global economies including China, Japan, South Korea, France and Germany.
He also asserted that Iranian minelaying assets, including boats, had been destroyed and that Tehran’s missile and drone capabilities were “largely obliterated.”
A US official said several US Navy ships crossed the strait for the first time since the war began, in an operation aimed at boosting confidence for commercial shipping and ensuring freedom of navigation through international waters.
However, Iranian media rejected the claim, stating that a US destroyer attempting to enter the waterway was forced to turn back after a warning from Iranian forces. According to reports, officials said the vessel was threatened with attack within 30 minutes if it proceeded. Iranian state media also echoed the warning.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route, has seen disrupted traffic amid fears of attacks, tightening energy markets and raising regional tensions.
