LIVEMine-cleared Hormuz tests Iran’s leverage as Gulf states and Washington recalibrateLast updated: August 28, 2026 | 08:00Donald Trumpiran nuclear programmeIsraelIranIran Israel conflictUS-Israel-Iran warus-israelus-iranThe aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) transits the Pacific Ocean while conducting a tailored ship’s training availability off the coast of Southern California on April 30, 2017. The Sailor assigned to the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) who was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the US Naval Hospital Guam April 9 died of COVID-related complications reported by the US Navy on April 13, 2020. AFPRegional tensions remain high as US Central Command declares the Strait of Hormuz cleared of mines laid by Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps, reopening a lifeline for global oil shipping. In Tehran, Qatar's Prime Minister met President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday in the latest push for de-escalation, while Washington signalled a tougher line, with President Donald Trump hinting at sanctions on Chinese banks over their Iran dealings and a fresh US aircraft carrier preparing to sail for the region. Follow all the latest developments here:07:47 AM, 28 August 2026Hormuz 100% cleared of mines: CentCom chief Admiral CooperUS Central Command's chief Admiral Brad Cooper, confirmed the removal of mines laid by Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps, calling it a major "milestone" that keeps key oil shipping lanes open. The operation supported over 1,500 vessels carrying 750 million barrels of oil, with more than 20 warships and hundreds of aircraft involved. While commercial traffic remains low compared to normal levels, the effort highlights ongoing US military presence amid tensions with Iran, though some note the strait isn't fully mine-free.07:47 AM, 28 August 2026Qatar PM meets Iran President Pezeshkian in Tehran efforts to de-escalate tensionsTehran: Qatar Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Tehran on Thursday as Doha stepped up diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating regional tensions and creating conditions for dialogue.The Qatar Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a post on X, said the two sides discussed "regional developments, their impact on security and stability, and ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions and foster a conductive environment for dialogue." 07:47 AM, 28 August 2026New US aircraft carrier to deploy to the Middle East: report