U.S. Central Command: U.S. Military Has Begun Mine Clearance Operations in the Strait of Hormuz
General Brad Cooper, Commander of U.S. Central Command, stated:
"We have today begun operations to establish a new safe maritime route, which will soon be announced to the shipping industry to ensure freedom of trade passage." The announcement by U.S. Central Command of initiating "mine clearance" activities in the Strait of Hormuz appears aimed at testing Iran's red lines, influencing nuclear negotiations, and attempting to seize strategic dominance over this vital global economic artery ahead of its potential reopening.
The U.S. military's claim clearly carries an element of exaggeration. The deployment of just two destroyers represents primarily a preliminary military probe rather than actual mine-clearance efforts. It is premature to speak of guaranteeing free passage at this stage.
This move entails significant military and political risks, which can be interpreted from the following aspects:
*争夺航道控制权
The core objective is to weaken Iran’s de facto control over the strait and reestablish U.S. influence. At the same time, the United States seeks to shape the trajectory of nuclear talks before critical international negotiations through symbolic "declarations," thereby securing initiative.
* 高风险的象征性姿态
Notably, the current U.S. deployment consists only of two missile destroyers, with plans to later introduce underwater unmanned vehicles. Rather than genuine mine-sweeping, this operation more closely resembles a show of military presence intended to convey a firm stance. More importantly, the action has not been coordinated with Iran. Iran’s armed forces spokesperson has “strongly denied” U.S. warships entering the strait and warned that “unauthorized passage will face immediate attack.” This stark divergence in messaging underscores the ongoing deadlock between both sides on the issue of the strait.
能源与经济的“咽喉”之痛
The security of the Strait of Hormuz directly impacts the global economic lifeline; it remains, in practice, the world’s crucial chokepoint.
Currently, oil tankers are still largely stranded in the strait, with numerous vessels stuck in limbo. Global trade may take several months to return to pre-conflict levels.
Disruption of shipping routes has led to significantly increased transportation costs, and war-risk insurance premiums remain high—factors that continue to hinder the return of mainstream shipping forces.
The U.S. military’s recent announcement regarding “mine clearance” appears less like a real demining operation and more like a psychological warfare tactic designed to exert maximum pressure. While intended to push for the reopening of the waterway, it may also heighten the risk of military miscalculation, further complicating the situation.
原文：toutiao.com/article/1862213446416384/
声明：该文仅代表作者本人观点