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Geopolitical Risk · Naval Blockade · Strait Of Hormuz · Underwater Drones
The US Navy initiated a mine clearance operation in the Strait of Hormuz using guided missile destroyers and will deploy underwater drones in the coming days, while President Trump ordered a full blockade of Iranian ports starting April 13, 2026, in response to Iran's mining of the critical oil chokepoint.
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital maritime chokepoint for oil exports from the Middle East. This action follows a shaky ceasefire in Operation Epic Fury, the US war effort against Tehran that began on February 28.
The New York Times reported Iranian forces laid mines and now cannot locate or remove them, citing US officials. Centcom announced "setting conditions" for clearing these devices, with USS Frank E. Peterson (DDG 121) and USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) already transiting the Strait.
Adm. Brad Cooper confirmed the establishment of a new safe passage for maritime industry.
President Trump, via Truth Social, declared the blockade due to Iran's refusal on nuclear demands, labeling it "WORLD EXTORTION," and instructed the Navy to interdict vessels paying illegal tolls and destroy mines. Centcom confirmed the blockade's impartial enforcement against all vessels entering or departing Iranian ports, but stated it will not impede freedom of navigation for non-Iranian ports through the Strait.
The Navy is investing in UUVs like General Dynamics' Knifefish for mine clearing, which reached initial operational capability in 2023 and was deployed in 2025.
US Navy Deploys Drones, Blockades Hormuz Amid Iran Mines(current)