The United States has helped Gulf countries export more than 1.5 billion barrels of crude oil through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz since the summer, despite an Iranian blockade, US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on Sunday.
In a statement posted on X, CENTCOM said US forces had supported the movement of more than 3,000 commercial vessels through the waterway over the past six months. It added that more than 95 percent of ships navigating the strait had passed through safely.
CENTCOM chief Admiral Brad Cooper highlighted the importance of maintaining secure shipping routes during his visit to US troops operating in the region. He said the main transit routes remained clear of Iranian sea mines following efforts by American personnel.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, normally carrying around one-fifth of global oil exports. Disruptions to shipping through the narrow passage have raised concerns about energy supplies and international markets.
Iran has asserted control over the waterway since the regional conflict escalated following US-Israeli strikes against Iran on February 28. Tehran has demanded authorization for vessels seeking to transit the strait.
However, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said this month that Iran had lost complete control of the passage, arguing that oil shipments had largely recovered.
Data from maritime tracking firm Kpler showed regional crude oil exports excluding Iran reached pre-war levels in September, with at least 16.5 million barrels leaving the region.
The developments highlight the continuing strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz to global energy security and international trade.
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