Iran Rejects U.S. Claims of Mine Clearing in Strait of Hormuz, Asserts Total Control
According to reports from Al Jazeera, the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters of the Iranian Armed Forces dismissed the statement from U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), which alleged that the USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. and USS Michael Murphy had entered the Arabian Gulf to begin demining operations. Tehran insists that the strategic waterway remains under the absolute and exclusive control of the Islamic Republic’s armed forces, despite U.S. Admiral Brad Cooper describing the mission as a "turning point" for international commerce.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a stern warning following the U.S. announcement, stating that any military vessel attempting to transit the strait without prior authorization would face a "harsh response." This development directly contradicts Washington's narrative of establishing a new, secure corridor for merchant ships. Political analyst Maria Sultan noted that unrestricted movement by the U.S. Navy in the Strait of Hormuz remains virtually impossible without Tehran's tacit consent. The conflicting claims have surfaced just as U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Iranian Speaker Mohammad Baqer Ghalibaf are engaged in the highest-level direct talks between the two nations since 1979.
The dispute over the strait’s control has become a central point of contention in the Islamabad peace talks, which entered a critical phase this weekend. While Iran has expressed a willingness to allow temporary passage for commercial vessels, it has rejected the U.S. justification for unilateral demining, viewing it as an infringement on its territorial sovereignty. Sources cited by the Tasnim News Agency suggest that both delegations are accusing each other of presenting "excessive demands" at the negotiating table, particularly regarding the unfreezing of Iranian assets and the specific protocols for maritime security.
The ongoing blockade, which began in late February, continues to cause significant volatility in global energy markets. International observers warn that the contradictory statements from CENTCOM and the IRGC reflect the deep-seated mistrust that nearly derailed the 21-hour marathon session in Pakistan earlier today. As the 14-day ceasefire window nears its expiration, the international community is closely monitoring whether this maritime standoff will lead to a renewed military confrontation or if a compromise can be reached to secure the world’s most vital oil transit route under shared or neutral supervision.
