U.S. Warships Clear Mines in Key Oil Passage, Iran Denies Operation

American warships have entered the Strait of Hormuz to clear sea mines, U.S. officials stated. The operation aims to secure the vital waterway for commercial oil tankers and other vessels. The U.S. Navy destroyers began their work as international negotiators discussed terms for a longer Israel-Hamas cease-fire. Officials did not directly link the two events. Iran immediately denied the U.S. claim. A spokesperson said no foreign warships had passed through the strait. The narrow Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important oil transit routes. Mines pose a major threat to shipping in the shallow channel.