The US Navy instructed naval and commercial vessels on May 4 to navigate the Strait of Hormuz via Oman's territorial waters south of the main shipping lane's Traffic Separation Scheme to avoid sea mine dangers. [1] The main shipping lane remains highly hazardous as sea mines have not been fully surveyed or cleared, prompting the reroute for safety. [1]
US Naval Forces Central Command urged all ships to contact Omani authorities on VHF channel 16 before transit because of anticipated high traffic volume. Commanders were also advised to review risk assessments carefully in advance. [1] The directive came amid ongoing US military operations known as "Project Freedom," which uses guided-missile destroyers to escort neutral vessels safely through the waterway. [1]
Iranian state media claimed that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps fired two missiles striking a US warship during the operation. However, the US military rejected this report, asserting that no navy vessels were hit and that operations continue as planned to support Project Freedom and maintain the naval blockade of Iranian ports. [1]
Tensions in the region escalated sharply after US and Israeli strikes against Iran on February 28, leading to Iranian retaliations and an effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz. [1] A Pakistani-mediated two-week ceasefire was announced on April 8, followed by direct talks in Islamabad on April 11, which failed to produce a lasting truce. [1] The US declared a formal naval blockade on April 13 to enforce restrictions on Iranian ports. [1]
President Donald Trump extended the ceasefire indefinitely at Pakistan's request but set no deadline, maintaining pressure on Iran while allowing diplomacy a limited window. [1] The rerouting of shipping on May 4 reflects ongoing mine clearance challenges and the complex security environment in the Gulf.
The US Navy continues to coordinate with Omani authorities and monitor maritime risks as part of efforts to keep the Strait of Hormuz operational amid high tensions and navigational hazards. [1]
