US warships successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz from east to west into the Gulf and then returned through the strait to the Arabian Sea, a senior US official confirmed.
The operation was described as a deliberate demonstration of freedom of navigation through international waters.
According to the official who spoke to Axios, the movement was conducted to assert the right of passage in the strategically vital waterway amid ongoing tensions. The warships completed the transit without incident.
Context of the Ceasefire
The transit took place while the fragile two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran remains in effect. The ceasefire agreement includes Iran allowing safe reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for international shipping, but the status of military vessels has remained a sensitive point.
The US has repeatedly emphasised that freedom of navigation in the strait is non-negotiable. This latest operation signals Washington’s determination to maintain open access despite Iran’s warnings and the IRGC’s insistence on prior coordination for certain vessels.
No immediate reaction from Iranian authorities has been reported following the US warship transit. The situation in the Strait of Hormuz continues to be closely watched by global shipping and energy markets.