CENTCOM Denies Reports of Navy Escorting Vessels in Strait of Hormuz

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has denied reports claiming that the U.S. Navy has resumed escorting vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. The statement was made via CENTCOM's official X account, emphasizing the sensitivity of the situation. Previous attempts to escort vessels were quickly retracted following protests from Iran and Gulf countries. CENTCOM stated, "CLAIM: Recent media reporting claims that the U.S. Navy has restarted escorting or assisting commercial vessels during transits through the Strait of Hormuz. FALSE." The U.S. Navy's escort efforts, referred to as Project Freedom, had previously led to increased tensions and clashes with Iran. Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle informed the Senate Appropriations Committee that resuming escort missions would exceed the Navy's capacity. He highlighted the challenges of conducting escort operations in a contested environment like the Strait of Hormuz.