US Military States Strait of Hormuz Remains Open Amid Tensions

A spokesperson for US Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that US forces have maintained the Strait of Hormuz open for commercial shipping despite ongoing tensions and a blockade on Iranian maritime trade. Captain Tim Hawkins reported that traffic through the strait continues, rejecting claims that Iran controls the waterway. He noted that since early May, US forces have assisted in moving over 900 million barrels of crude oil through the strait to the global market. Hawkins mentioned that US forces are conducting two missions: facilitating commercial traffic and enforcing a blockade, having redirected over 100 ships attempting to violate it. He also indicated that US forces cleared mines from primary shipping lanes in the strait weeks ago and emphasized the importance of keeping these lanes clear. CENTCOM's comments come amid heightened tensions regarding shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global energy supplies. Hawkins defended US military operations in the region, addressing concerns about civilian casualties from recent attacks in southern Iran, stating that the US military adheres to laws of armed conflict and targets military sites, not civilians. He claimed that Iranian attacks have not impacted US military effectiveness, asserting that American forces have significantly degraded Iran's missile capabilities and eliminated much of Iran's navy.