CENTCOM Denies Abandoning Strait of Hormuz Amid Iranian Claims
U.S. Central Command rejects Iranian accusations of abandoning the Strait of Hormuz, reaffirming American presence and control.
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United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has denied Iranian claims that the U.S. has abandoned the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that American and regional forces continue to maintain control of the critical waterway. In a statement posted to social media, CENTCOM refuted the claim made by the navy commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), calling it ‘FALSE.’
U.S. Forces Remain Vigilant in the Strait of Hormuz
The command emphasized that U.S. forces deployed to the Middle East remain present and vigilant in the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters. CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper visited the waterway this weekend, flying over the corridor in a U.S. Army Chinook helicopter and meeting with service members involved in mine clearance operations.
Cooper stated, ‘Today, primary transit routes in the Strait of Hormuz remain free and clear of Iranian sea mines thanks to incredible efforts by our people.’ He added that the U.S. remains focused on keeping commercial traffic flowing, working with the U.S. interagency, Gulf Cooperation Council, and shipping industry.
Control and Safety Demonstrated
CENTCOM reported that over 3,000 commercial vessels have transited the waterway with support from U.S. forces in the last six months, with American forces assisting in the exportation of more than 1.5 billion barrels of crude oil since summer. Over 95% of ships navigating the Strait of Hormuz have sailed through safely despite the IRGC’s aggression, demonstrating that the U.S. and regional partners control the international waterway.
Strategic Importance of the Strait
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital international waterway, and its security is crucial for global energy supply. CENTCOM’s continued presence and operational efforts underscore the U.S. commitment to maintaining stability in the region and ensuring the free flow of commercial traffic.
Source: OANN