The U.S. Central Command (Centcom) announced that the United States has begun operations to clear sea mines in the Strait of Hormuz, in an effort to restore maritime transport security in one of the world's most critical energy routes. According to the statement, two U.S. Navy destroyers have passed through the strait to support the clearance operations and ensure the safety of the waterway. Centcom made it known that the mission aims to ensure the area is clear of sea mines suspected to have been laid by Iran, reducing the risk to commercial vessels and oil tankers. Centcom Commander Brad Cooper stated that the operation marks the beginning of establishing a new secure maritime corridor, which will soon be communicated to the shipping industry to encourage the return of normal commercial traffic.