The United States Central Command has initiated mine-clearing operations in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime passage for global oil shipments. Two U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyers, the USS Frank E. Peterson and USS Michael Murphy, transited the strait and operated in the Arabian Gulf on Saturday as part of the mission. CENTCOM alleges that sea mines in the area were previously deployed by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps. No public response has been issued by Iran. Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of CENTCOM, stated, "Today, we began the process of establishing a new passage and we will [ensure] the free flow of commerce." The strait handles about 20% of the world's oil exports, making it a vital corridor for global energy trade. Underwater drones and additional U.S. forces are expected to join the operation in the coming days. The effort follows U.S. military actions against Iranian targets earlier in the year and coincides with a fragile ceasefire in the region. Washington describes the mission as part of its broader commitment to freedom of navigation and regional stability. Independent confirmation of the mine-clearing activities is not yet available.