US President Donald Trump announced on April 11, 2026, that the United States has begun the process of clearing the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping lane, following the transit of two US Navy guided-missile destroyers. This operation is significant as it marks the first US naval movement through the strait since the conflict with Iran escalated in February. Trump claimed that Iran is 'losing big' and that their military capabilities, including 28 Iranian mine-laying vessels, have been largely destroyed. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that the USS Frank E. Peterson and USS Michael Murphy are conducting operations to ensure the strait is free of mines laid by Iran's military forces. Despite these claims, Iranian state media refuted the presence of US vessels in the strait and warned commercial ships to seek prior approval before transiting, threatening destruction for non-compliance. This development occurs amidst ongoing discussions in Islamabad aimed at negotiating a ceasefire in the six-week war.