US begins clearing mines from Strait of Hormuz as warships cross waterway

International, Middle East, North America

INTERNATIONAL, 11 April 2026 (NPA) — United States President Donald Trump has announced that the US has begun the process of clearing mines from the Strait of Hormuz to allow the full resumption of marine navigation. He said the move was being undertaken as a favour to countries across the world, including China, Japan, South Korea, France, Germany and others.

In a post on Truth Social, President Trump criticised what he described as “The Fake News Media”, accusing them of lacking credibility and of portraying Iran as “winning” despite what he claimed was the opposite. He asserted that Iran’s military capabilities had been severely degraded, including its navy, air force, radar systems, missile and drone factories, and leadership.

Trump noted that the only remaining threat was the possibility of ships striking sea mines, but added that all 28 of Iran’s mine‑laying boats had been destroyed. He said the US was now beginning mine‑clearing operations in the Strait of Hormuz to ensure safe passage for international shipping.

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He also lampooned countries that had declined to participate in securing the strait during the conflict, saying they lacked the courage or will to act. He pointed out that empty oil tankers from many nations were now heading to the United States to load crude oil.

“Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP,” he concluded.

Earlier, Axios reported that several US warships crossed the Strait of Hormuz today for the first time since the war began, in a move not coordinated with Iran.