Conflict in the Middle East

(Context: The U.S. Navy sends destroyers to the Strait of Hormuz for demining operations)

Washington – The U.S. military stated that two of its destroyers crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday to conduct demining operations in this strategic maritime route controlled by Iran, a claim denied by Tehran amidst ongoing talks between the two countries in Pakistan.

In the evening, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of Iran threatened to take severe action against any military vessels passing through the strait.

The U.S. military Central Command (Centcom) declared that the two ships were on a mission to ensure the strait is clear of mines previously laid by the Iranian Revolutionary Guards.

The Iranian military spokesperson rejected these claims, asserting that Iran has the authority over vessels passing through the strait.

President Trump mentioned that the U.S. Navy is conducting demining activities in the strait and is engaged in negotiations as well.

In response, the Iranian military warned that any attempt by military vessels to pass through the strait would face severe action.

The announcement by Centcom came amid peace talks between the U.S. and Iran in Pakistan, where the issue of traffic in the strait is crucial.

Navigation in this strategic maritime passage for oil and global commerce has been obstructed by Iran since the start of the war, despite its reopening being a condition of the ceasefire.

(Fact Check: Donald Trump’s statements regarding demining operations and critiques of media)

The U.S. admiral Brad Cooper affirmed that efforts are being made to establish a new passage in the strait to promote the free flow of commerce.

Additional U.S. forces, including underwater drones, are set to join the demining operations in the coming days.

President Trump claimed that the U.S. has initiated the process of blocking the Strait of Hormuz, framing the operation as a benefit for countries around the world including China, Japan, South Korea, France, Germany, and others.

Trump criticized the media for suggesting that Iran is winning the war against the U.S., countering that everyone knows they are losing, particularly highlighting the threat posed by Iranian naval mines in the strait. He also mentioned the incoming empty tankers destined for the U.S. to load oil.

[Image Caption: Screenshot from Donald Trump’s Truth Social Account]