Washington: The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has said the southern route through the Strait of Hormuz remains free and open for commercial shipping despite heightened tensions with Iran, asserting that American forces have helped more than 1,000 vessels safely transit the strategic waterway over the past three months. The statement comes amid continuing concerns over maritime security in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.
The announcement follows recent attacks on commercial vessels in the region and ongoing negotiations aimed at restoring normal shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
CENTCOM says shipping route remains open
In a statement posted on X, CENTCOM said the southern shipping lane through the Strait of Hormuz continues to operate normally for all commercial vessels.
According to the US military, American naval forces have assisted more than 1,000 ships in safely navigating the international waterway over the last three months despite what it described as “unwarranted Iranian aggression.”
Strait of Hormuz remains strategically vital
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s busiest maritime chokepoints, carrying a significant share of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas exports.
Any disruption to shipping through the narrow waterway has immediate implications for global energy markets, freight costs and international trade. Recent hostilities in the Middle East have increased concerns over the safety of commercial vessels operating in the region.
Maritime tensions continue
Although the US insists the southern transit route remains operational, security concerns persist after several recent attacks on merchant vessels near Oman and in nearby waters.
These incidents have complicated diplomatic efforts to fully restore confidence in commercial navigation and have prompted shipping companies to remain cautious while operating in the Gulf region.
Diplomatic efforts to reopen shipping
The statement comes as Iran and Oman continue negotiations on arrangements to facilitate safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
While US officials have expressed optimism that progress is being made, differences remain over issues such as navigation control and transit arrangements. Washington has reiterated that the strait must remain an international waterway with unrestricted commercial access.
US reassures global shipping industry
By highlighting continued naval escorts and vessel assistance, the US appears to be reassuring international shipping companies that commercial movement remains possible despite regional instability.
The Pentagon has repeatedly stressed its commitment to protecting freedom of navigation and ensuring uninterrupted maritime trade through the Gulf.
Conclusion
The United States has maintained that the southern route through the Strait of Hormuz remains open and secure for commercial vessels despite ongoing tensions with Iran. While diplomatic negotiations continue over broader maritime arrangements, recent attacks on ships underscore that the region remains highly sensitive, requiring continued military vigilance and international cooperation.