Iran Conflict: Vance Reports No Deal Following Extended Pakistan Talks

Two U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyers began clearing mines in the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday. Some commercial vessels remain unable to transit the waterway despite a recent ceasefire, U.S. Central Command said.

Mine-clearance operation

CENTCOM said the USS Frank E. Peterson and the USS Michael Murphy transited the strait. They conducted operations in the Arabian Gulf to remove sea mines linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

The command described the activity as part of a broader mission to restore safe navigation. CENTCOM said it will publish a safe passage route for the maritime industry soon.

Military and diplomatic context

CENTCOM commander Adm. Brad Cooper said forces have begun establishing a new, secure channel through the strait. The pathway will be shared with commercial shipping to encourage the free flow of commerce.

Officials caution that mines are not the only threat. Iran could still launch missiles, a combination that complicates defenses and makes securing the strait harder.

Impact on shipping

Filmogaz.com reported that roughly 30 ships have passed through since the ceasefire earlier this week. Transit levels remain well below normal as assessments and clearance continue.

Wider diplomatic signals

The Iran conflict remains volatile. U.N. envoy Vance reported no deal after extended Pakistan talks, underscoring lingering diplomatic strains.

President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social that the United States has begun clearing the strait. He framed the effort as a favor to countries around the world.