Trump Claims Hormuz Mines Cleared as Rubio Signals Shift From Strikes to Sanctions

President Trump said via Truth Social on Wednesday, August 26, 2026 that the US Navy had removed or detonated all mines from the international shipping lanes of the Strait of Hormuz, warning Iran that 'any ship or boat placing new mines will be immediately and systematically destroyed' under a 'zero tolerance' policy. A US official confirmed CENTCOM had cleared both inbound and outbound lanes after months of underwater drone detection and contractor removal work, allowing over 500 ships to transit in recent weeks. Separately, Secretary of State Marco Rubio told foreign counterparts the US is not expected to launch new strikes on Iran 'for the time being,' shifting emphasis to economic pressure — including Treasury Secretary Bessent's sanctions campaign — while not ruling out retaliatory strikes if Iran attacks first.