US Central Command Claims Mines Cleared in Strait of Hormuz, Continues Maritime Blockade Allegations

According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander Brad Cooper claimed that American forces have successfully cleared mines allegedly placed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in the Strait of Hormuz and its shipping lanes. Cooper further alleged that international shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz have been delineated to ensure the secure passage of vessels in both directions.

The CENTCOM commander also asserted that approximately 750 million barrels of oil have transited the Persian Gulf with American support. He additionally claimed that Iran has not exported any oil since the resumption of a maritime blockade in mid-last month. The U.S. military official also alleged that no vessel has entered or departed Iranian ports without American permission.

CENTCOM Commander Cooper further stated that the U.S. permits vessel traffic to and from Iranian ports solely for humanitarian reasons. He also claimed that 75 vessels attempting to breach Iran’s maritime blockade were turned back, and three vessels that did not comply with orders were stopped and disabled.