Two U.S. Navy destroyers entered the Strait of Hormuz to begin mine-clearing operations, U.S. Central Command confirmed on Saturday, April 10, 2026, as Washington simultaneously engaged in rare direct talks with Iran aimed at reducing regional tensions.
The vessels transited the critical waterway and began operations in the Arabian Gulf, with additional U.S. assets, including underwater drones, expected to support efforts in the coming days. The move follows concerns that naval mines had been deployed in the strait, a key global shipping route responsible for nearly 20 percent of the world’s oil supply.
President Donald Trump stated that the United States was acting to ensure safe passage for international trade, adding that Iranian mine-laying capabilities had been neutralized. The military activity comes amid a fragile ceasefire established earlier in the week after weeks of conflict disrupted maritime traffic and energy flows.
At the same time, Vice President JD Vance traveled to Islamabad for trilateral discussions involving U.S., Iranian, and Pakistani officials. The meeting marks the first direct face-to-face talks between the United States and Iran since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, signaling a potential diplomatic shift after decades of limited engagement.
Although some commercial shipping has resumed following the ceasefire, traffic remains below normal levels. Analysts caution that disruptions to global oil supply may persist for months, as damaged infrastructure and cautious shipping operations delay a full recovery.
