Washington, April 12, 2026 – Two US Navy guided-missile destroyers—USS Frank E. Peterson Jr. (DDG-121) and USS Michael Murphy (DDG-112)—passed through the Strait of Hormuz Saturday without incident, marking the first such transit since the six-week US-Iran war began and signaling a “last warning” post-failed Islamabad talks.
President Trump announced the “clearing out” operation to restore freedom of navigation in the vital chokepoint for 20% of global oil, executed without Iranian coordination. No escort for commercial ships; Iran denied the passage, claiming it warned and blocked a vessel.
Strategic Context
The move follows VP JD Vance’s 21-hour Pakistan talks collapse over nuclear renunciation, Hormuz reopening, and sanctions relief. US Central Command confirmed mine-clearing ops by Iran’s IRGC; it upholds the fragile ceasefire while testing Tehran’s resolve.
Market and Regional Impact
Oil dipped below $100 on transit news, easing prior spikes; India monitors as UAE/Qatar visits secure LNG flows. Allies like UK/France consider patrols if blockade resumes.
