The U.S. military says it has significantly reduced Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital energy chokepoint, after two months of escorts, air protection, strikes and mine-clearing operations. Only 2% of ships transiting the strait over the last month were hit, a U.S. official said, while more than 200 mine-like objects were removed from the main shipping lane; 11 were actual mines. Traffic through the southern channel has risen to 20 to 30 tankers each night, carrying an average of 9 to 10 million barrels, or roughly half the pre-war volume. CENTCOM (U.S. Central Command) commander Adm. Brad Cooper said internationally recognized routes were free of Iranian sea mines and that shipping lanes were open, although oil experts and tanker trackers dispute the U.S. traffic estimates and periodic projectile strikes continue to raise safety concerns. The conflict began with U.S. and Israeli efforts to degrade Iran's missile capabilities and nuclear program but evolved into a fight over Hormuz after Iran announced its closure, deployed mines and attacked or threatened commercial shipping. Brent crude rose from about $72 a barrel to as high as $126, contributing to President Trump's decision to agree to a ceasefire on April 8. The strait's reopening was central to a U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding signed two months later, but the waterway never fully reopened and the agreement collapsed. The United States now aims to expand the main channel by mid-September, increase nightly traffic to at least 50 ships and restore oil exports to 60% to 70% of pre-war levels. The United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Kuwait have joined the U.S.-protected shipping operation, Saudi Arabia is expected to join, and Qatar may send liquefied natural gas tankers through the route. Regional mediators, including Pakistan's army commander, Oman's foreign minister and Qatar's prime minister, have recently visited Tehran as Iran shows renewed interest in negotiations. President Trump says he is not interested in talks, while White House envoy Steve Witkoff continues speaking with Qataris and other mediators. U.S. officials believe the changed conditions in Hormuz could strengthen Washington's position in future negotiations, while viewing the June 17 MOU as no longer relevant.