Centcom supports Gulf oil exports

The United States military command for the Middle East, Centcom, announced on Sunday that it has assisted Gulf countries in exporting 1.5 billion barrels of oil through the Strait of Hormuz since the summer, avoiding Iranian restrictions. This effort has involved supporting commercial vessels navigating one of the world's most critical shipping routes.

Vessels safely pass through Hormuz

According to Centcom, over 3,000 commercial vessels have successfully traversed the Strait of Hormuz with the help of US forces in the past six months. The statement highlights that more than 95 percent of these vessels were able to navigate safely, indicating a high level of operational effectiveness.

Hormuz lanes remain clear of Iranian mines

Admiral Brad Cooper, the head of Centcom, assured that the main navigation lanes of the Strait of Hormuz are currently free of Iranian mines. This assurance comes as he visited American troops deployed in the area, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to maintain safe passage for commercial shipping.

Iran claims control of Hormuz

Iran asserts that it controls the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic maritime route, since the outbreak of the Middle East war on February 28. This conflict was triggered by American and Israeli strikes on Tehran, and Iran now requires all ships to obtain authorization to pass through the strait, which previously handled one-fifth of global oil exports.

Iran's actions aim to disrupt traffic

Recent attacks against ships violating Iranian requirements have intensified, according to analysts. Tehran is believed to be demonstrating that its ability to disrupt maritime traffic remains intact, particularly as the US midterm elections approach. Rising oil prices are seen as fueling discontent against President Donald Trump's administration.