US Central Command says forces in Middle East 'ready and alert'

WASHINGTON, United States — U.S. Central Command said its forces remain in a "ready and alert" posture across the Middle East, with two American aircraft carriers continuing operations in the region. The command said the carrier George H.W. Bush is currently sailing in the Arabian Sea. The statement came after the New York Post reported that re-opening maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz would be "virtually impossible" if mines laid during the latest round of tensions between Washington and Tehran are not removed. Shipping data showed at least 20 vessels transited the strait in the past 24 hours, coinciding with an initial easing in tensions following the first talks between the United States and Iran in that period. No further details on U.S. force movements or on mine-clearing operations were immediately available.