CENTCOM secures oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz

On October 26, 2026, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that it has successfully assisted Gulf states in exporting 1.5 billion barrels of oil since the summer. Despite the de facto blockade attempts by Iran, U.S. forces have supported the passage of over 3,000 commercial vessels through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz over the last six months.

Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of CENTCOM, stated during a site visit that over 95% of ships traversed the strait safely and confirmed that primary shipping lanes are currently free of Iranian mines. These efforts follow the escalation of regional hostilities, which began on October 28. While U.S. forces emphasize the security of these maritime routes, Iran continues to assert that its own armed forces maintain control over the waterway.

The operation remains ongoing, with U.S. military personnel continuing to monitor the region for potential threats and maintaining presence to ensure commercial traffic continues despite the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.