US Central Command Denies Resuming "Freedom of Navigation" Mission in Strait of Hormuz

US Central Command (CENTCOM) has denied reports claiming that the US Navy has resumed escorting commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz. This statement came after the Wall Street Journal reported the reactivation of the so-called "Freedom of Navigation" mission.

In an official release, CENTCOM stated that the circulated information about reinstating the "Freedom of Navigation" operation is inaccurate. The command emphasized that US forces are not currently escorting commercial vessels through this strategic maritime passage.

The statement further clarified that reports suggesting the resumption of such escort or protection tasks are "not accurate," underscoring the absence of any direct naval escort or security operations for ships in the vital shipping lane at this time.

The Wall Street Journal had earlier reported that the US Navy had restarted providing assistance to vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to secure one of the most critical maritime routes for global oil trade.

According to US military sources cited by the newspaper, a large Greek oil tanker carrying approximately two million barrels of crude oil was escorted by the US Navy as it transited the strait near the Omani coast. This tanker had been stranded in the Gulf waters since early March before resuming its voyage to India to deliver its cargo.

The report added that the US Navy plans to assist about a dozen ships in the coming days, including large oil tankers and container vessels, to ensure their safe passage through the strategic waterway.

Meanwhile, Israel announced the deportation of activists involved with the "Freedom Flotilla" ships heading to Gaza.

Iran imposes restrictions on the strait, through which one-fifth of the world’s oil production passes during peacetime, causing global market disruptions and granting Tehran a significant bargaining tool in ongoing conflicts.

In response to Iran's navigation constraints in the Strait of Hormuz, the United States has imposed a blockade on Iranian ports despite a ceasefire brokered by Pakistan that took effect on April 8.