CENTCOM: 1 billion barrels moved through Hormuz under US protection as Iran oil exports halt

Euro Times – Washington

U.S. Central Command chief Admiral Brad Cooper said on Saturday, September 19, 2026, that U.S. forces had supported the transit of more than one billion barrels of crude oil through the Strait of Hormuz over the past two months, marking one of Washington’s most significant assessments since operations to secure navigation through the waterway began.

Cooper said U.S. forces had provided “coordinated protection” for more than 2,000 commercial vessel transits, adding that the volume of crude oil, liquefied natural gas and cargo moving through the strait during the past two weeks was the highest in six months.

The CENTCOM commander also said the main transit lanes in the Strait of Hormuz had been cleared of mines, according to the U.S. military’s assessment.

Cooper further said Iran had exported no oil through the strait because of the U.S. blockade. The claim is based on statements by U.S. Central Command.

He also said the United States was working with regional partners to form a new coalition unit to counter attack drones and strengthen air defenses.

The statements are particularly significant because of the Strait of Hormuz’s central role in global energy trade, as U.S. military and naval operations linked to the war with Iran continue alongside efforts to protect commercial shipping and Gulf energy exports.