US reportedly escorts 70 merchant ships through Strait of Hormuz

United States has escorted approximately 70 merchant ships through the Strait of Hormuz over the past three weeks, The New York Times (NYT) reported, citing US Central Command (CENTCOM) officials. CENTCOM previously denied reports of renewed escort operations in the Strait of Hormuz. According to NYT-sourced sources, details of the specific vessels or routes taken were not disclosed. One official confirmed at least one ship passed near the Iranian coast. Meanwhile, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy stated it continues to monitor merchant vessel traffic in the Strait. The developments come amid efforts to ease tensions between the US and Iran. On 29 May, US President Donald Trump announced the lifting of a maritime blockade on Iranian ports. However, Iran’s Supreme Leader’s military adviser, Mohsen Rezaei, stated the US military continues the blockade despite the announcement. This week, US and Iranian officials agreed to extend a ceasefire for 60 days. Iran also committed to clearing all mines in the Strait of Hormuz within 30 days. It was agreed that shipments through the Strait would not face any charges. On 28 February, the US and Israel launched attacks on targets in Iran, reportedly killing over 3,000 people. The US and Iran announced a ceasefire on 8 April, but subsequent talks in Islamabad concluded without results, leading the US to impose a blockade on Iranian ports.