U.S. Forces Begin Mine Clearance Operations in Strait of Hormuz
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has launched operations to clear sea mines in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping corridor. The mission began on April 11, with two U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyers USS Frank E. Peterson (DDG 121) and USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) transiting the waterway and conducting security operations in the Arabian Gulf.
The operation is focused on establishing a new safe maritime passage after mines were reportedly laid by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Additional U.S. resources, including underwater drones, are expected to support the clearance mission in the coming days.
Diplomatic Talks Continue Amid Stalemate
At the same time, U.S. and Iranian delegations have begun direct negotiations in Islamabad, hosted by Shehbaz Sharif. Both sides met separately with Pakistani leadership before talks began. However, negotiators reported a stalemate over control and security arrangements for the Strait of Hormuz.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance expressed cautious optimism about progress but warned Iranian negotiators against delaying tactics. Meanwhile, Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated that Iran is willing to negotiate but remains distrustful of U.S. intentions.
Regional Tensions and Broader Negotiations Intensify
Military activity continues across the region, including Israeli air strikes in southern Lebanon. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam postponed a planned visit to Washington, where he was expected to meet U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio ahead of talks between Israeli and Lebanese representatives.
Iran has also insisted that any lasting ceasefire must include the unfreezing of sanctioned Iranian assets and an end to Israeli military operations against Hezbollah. However, U.S. officials have denied reports that Washington agreed to release Iranian funds, stating that negotiations were still in early stages.
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