US conducts major oil transport through Strait of Hormuz amid Iranian mine deployment

The United States has executed its largest crude oil transport operation through the Strait of Hormuz since hostilities began six months ago, utilizing naval, aerial, and space assets. The movement coincided with an American strike on Iran's Larak Island. Iranian forces responded by deploying rocket-launched sea mines across the key maritime passage.

Tehran subsequently reaffirmed that the strait "will not be opened" until Washington complies with a memorandum requiring the termination of port blockades, lifting of oil sanctions, unfreezing of Iranian assets, and cessation of military operations across all fronts. Prior to the conflict, approximately 20 million barrels of crude oil passed through the strategic waterway daily.

Sources: Expresso, Expresso das Ilhas, RTP (Rádio e Televisão de Portugal)