US forces declare Strait of Hormuz demined as Treasury targets Iranian oil networks

Clearance operations and naval blockade

US Central Command declared the Strait of Hormuz reopened on Thursday following mine-clearing operations throughout recognized transit routes. Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of Centcom, reported that international shipping lanes are free of Iranian sea mines after targeted clearance missions. More than 20 warships, hundreds of aircraft, and approximately 50,000 military personnel enforce a strict blockade preventing Iran from exporting petroleum products through its ports. Cooper stated that no vessel enters or leaves Iranian harbors without explicit military clearance, with exemptions granted solely for humanitarian shipments. During enforcement operations, US naval forces turned back 75 vessels attempting to breach the perimeter and disabled three ships that refused commands.

The recognized and international transit lanes in the strait are free of Iranian sea mines thanks to the incredible work of the Armed Forces.

Maritime transit claims and diplomatic impasse

President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that the waterway was open and subsequently published a map on Truth Social designating the strategic corridor as new US territory. White House officials stated that between 20 and 30 vessels navigate Hormuz daily, carrying roughly 10 million barrels of crude oil. That volume equals half of the daily maritime transit observed prior to the conflict. Commercial maritime tracking firms disputed the traffic figures released by Washington. The Iranian government rejected US declarations, asserting that the strait will not reopen until the United States fulfills commitments established under a memorandum of understanding signed on 17 June. Tehran refused public negotiations following the conclusion of a 60-day diplomatic window intended to end the conflict triggered by a US-Israeli offensive launched on 28 February.

Treasury campaign and economic warfare

The US Treasury initiated Operation Economic Outcast to dismantle Iran's financial infrastructure after air strikes failed to halt state funding for military manufacturing and operations. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that authorities mapped the commercial entities, front companies, and banking channels supporting Iranian petroleum exports. Washington declared an economic war after the expiration of the 60-day deadline agreed upon by both governments. The new enforcement campaign broadens previous measures, including April sanctions directed at independent Chinese refiner Hengli over transactions worth billions of dollars. US authorities aim to disrupt each logistical link that converts exported oil into state revenue.

Since the blockade resumed, thousands of troops operating more than 20 warships and hundreds of aircraft have ensured our success, turning back 75 vessels attempting to run the blockade and disabling three vessels that did not comply with orders.

Chinese buyers and shadow fleet logistics

China purchases approximately 90% of Iranian crude oil exports according to figures released by the US Treasury. Small independent refineries in China, known as teapots, buy the majority of these barrels at discounted rates to compensate for US sanction risks. Iranian crude continues reaching international buyers despite physical strikes, absorbing financial discounts and intermediaries' fees of roughly 30%. Iranian trade networks rely on reflagged tankers, intermediary companies, and shadow fleets to move cargoes across maritime corridors. Washington is focusing on these illicit transport channels to eliminate the capital sustaining Iranian military programs.