On Friday, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth addressed concerns about Iran potentially deploying additional mines in the Strait of Hormuz, warning that such actions would breach the delicate cease-fire agreement with the United States.
During a press briefing, Hegseth stated, “If there are attempts to recklessly and irresponsibly lay more mines, we will address them. It’s a violation of the cease-fire.”
In response to Iran’s maneuvers in this crucial maritime passage, the United States has implemented a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz to curb any efforts by Iran to seize control of the vital shipping route.
Hegseth commented on the situation by saying, “Transit is now more limited and riskier than anyone would prefer, but that’s due to Iran’s irresponsible actions with small, fast boats equipped with weaponry.”
When questioned about a report by The Washington Post, which indicated that the Pentagon had informed lawmakers it might take up to six months to clear the Strait of Hormuz of Iranian mines, Hegseth did not refute this estimation.
“We won’t speculate on a timeline,” he remarked. “I saw that report. It was based on yet another leak from a closed-door session, intended to be classified, and it appears that was mentioned.”
“We feel confident in our ability, in the correct period of time, to clear any mines that we identify, and would encourage other countries to be a part of such an effort as well, but we’re tracking that very closely.”
