What did Trump claim about the status of sea mines in the Strait of Hormuz and the timeline for reopening the waterway?

Trump claimed that American forces had 'swept mines and we’ve gotten most of them, we think,' and stated the strait would open 'immediately' upon Iran signing a memorandum of understanding to cease armed hostilities — 'subject to a couple of areas being cleaned out, also of mines.'

What alternative maritime route did Trump reference, and what is its reported operational context?

Trump alluded to a 'southern route' along the Omani coast that some ships had 'covertly taken... with the assistance of the US military if needed,' a quiet arrangement previously reported by Bloomberg News.

Trump Downplays Threats of Hormuz Mines, Touts Alternate Route

Jun 3, 2026

President Trump downplayed Iranian mine threats in the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting an alternate route while negotiations aim to reopen the critical waterway. The conflict threatens to disrupt one-fifth of global energy flows and impacts the international gas trade.

bloomberg

2026-04-25

Trump’s Hormuz Blockade Has Deepened a Historic Shipping Crisis

2026-04-28

Trump’s Art of the Deal Collides With Iran’s Patient Diplomacy

2026-04-28

Trump States Iran Seeks Hormuz Opening Amid War Ceasefire Talks

2026-04-29

Trump Rejects Iran Hormuz Offer, Maintains Naval Blockade

2026-05-03

Hormuz Tracker: Traffic Halts as Trump Weighs Iran’s New Offer