The United States has sparked controversy by sending two destroyers through the Strait of Hormuz while engaged in ceasefire negotiations with Iran, echoing earlier tensions when the U.S. launched military action during nuclear talks. Washington said the passage was conducted in accordance with international law and carried no hostile intent, but Iran issued renewed warnings, creating a standoff.
According to the Wall Street Journal on Sunday, the U.S. sent two destroyers through the Strait of Hormuz for the first time since the war with Iran began. The move came as senior American negotiators were discussing a ceasefire agreement with Iranian counterparts in Pakistan.
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) repeatedly radioed the U.S. vessels, demanding they stop and warning, "This is your final warning." The American side responded that the passage was "in accordance with international law" and that the U.S. "had no intention of challenging Iran."
U.S. Central Command said the vessels had conducted operations in the Persian Gulf and exited the waterway without incident. The transit was intended to signal that the U.S. does not recognize Iranian control over the strait while supporting the resumption of commercial shipping, the command said.
Ali Golhaki, a pro-Iranian government influencer, posted on X (formerly Twitter) that day claiming the U.S. is demanding Iran export 400 kilograms of uranium, maintain zero percent enrichment levels, and cede full control of the Strait of Hormuz. "This is the stockpile they failed to seize in previous military operations," he wrote. "Today's test in the strait ended with Iran's firm rejection."
"The U.S. made no mention of Lebanon," he added. "This suggests the U.S. did not come to Pakistan for genuine negotiations."
The incident has escalated tensions as control of the Strait of Hormuz has emerged as a central issue in ceasefire talks. Iran has effectively blockaded the strait for weeks through missile and drone attacks, blocking U.S. Navy access. Earlier that day, President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, "We now begin the process of clearing the Strait of Hormuz."
Meanwhile, NBC reported that at least 16 vessels passed through the Strait of Hormuz that day—the highest number during the U.S.-Iran ceasefire. U.S. Central Command said Navy destroyers conducted Iranian sea mine clearing operations and escorted three oil tankers—registered in China, Hong Kong, and Liberia—through the waterway.
