US Navy clears Iranian sea mines from Strait of Hormuz after six-week disruption

The U.S. military has conducted mine-clearing operations in the Strait of Hormuz following Iranian attacks on commercial vessels that disrupted global shipping for more than six weeks. Iran's actions threatened one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints, through which roughly one-third of global seaborne oil trade passes. The disruption has direct economic consequences for American consumers, as reduced oil supply from the Persian Gulf affects U.S. gas prices and energy costs. The operation underscores the strategic importance of the waterway and the ongoing U.S. military presence required to maintain freedom of navigation in contested Middle Eastern waters.