Recent reports indicate that Iran is gearing up to deploy mines in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global commerce that facilitates the movement of approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply. This development has garnered significant attention due to the strategic importance of this maritime passage.
Despite the significant setbacks faced by Iran’s naval forces, which include the loss of over 50 vessels, Tehran still retains a considerable portion of its capabilities. According to a CNN report, more than 80% of its small boats and mine-laying equipment remain operational, enabling Iran to initiate the deployment of mines in the strait. It has been suggested that the initial stages of mine-laying have already commenced.
While the precise number of naval mines at Iran’s disposal is unclear, estimates have previously placed their stockpile between 2,000 and 6,000 units. This potential mine deployment is unfolding against a backdrop of heightened tensions, with President Trump explicitly cautioning Iran against such actions.
The Trump administration is reportedly considering assuming control over the Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively rendered impassable by Iranian military actions since hostilities began. In a strongly worded statement on Truth Social, President Trump issued a stern warning: “If Iran has put out any mines in the Hormuz Strait, and we have no reports of them doing so, we want them removed, IMMEDIATELY!”
He further emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “If for any reason mines were placed, and they are not removed forthwith, the Military consequences to Iran will be at a level never seen before.”
“If for any reason mines were placed, and they are not removed forthwith, the Military consequences to Iran will be at a level never seen before,” he added.
“If, on the other hand, they remove what may have been placed, it will be a giant step in the right direction!”
Trump said that at least 10 mine laying boats were destroyed as of Tuesday afternoon.
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The Trump administration has been adamant about keeping the Strait of Hormuz open following repeated attacks on oil tankers in the waterway.
The president also warned that the same missile strikes that have taken out suspected drug vessels in the Caribbean would be used on mine ships in the strait, warning Iran to “beware.”
Gen. Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told reporters Tuesday that the US was taking aim at Iranian mine-laying vessels to prevent the traps from being deployed in the strait.
The US military is currently looking at multiple options on how to keep the strait open and allow the flow of oil through, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters.
With the war and closure of the strait, the price of oil has turned volatile, with prices swinging wildly after the cost per barrel of Brent crude oil spiked to $119.50 — 65% higher than the pre-war price before settling below $90 on Monday.
