Iran is reportedly preparing to deploy naval mines in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping lane for global oil transport, according to U.S. officials who spoke to CBS News. The officials indicated that Iran may utilize smaller vessels capable of carrying two to three mines each to lay these devices in the strait. While the exact number of mines in Iran’s arsenal remains unclear, estimates suggest the country holds between 2,000 and 6,000 naval mines, primarily manufactured with assistance from China or Russia.
In a statement on Truth Social on Tuesday, President Donald Trump emphasized the seriousness of the situation, declaring, “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 warned of significant military consequences should the mines not be removed promptly and remarked that a cooperative action from Iran could represent “a giant step in the right direction.”
Reports from CNN indicated that Iran has initiated the laying of mines in the strait. On the same day, Trump reiterated his strong stance against any attempts by Iran to impede oil traffic, stating, “If Iran does anything that stops the flow of oil within the Strait of Hormuz, they will be hit by the United States of America twenty times harder than they have been hit thus far.”
In a press briefing at the Pentagon, Gen. Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, confirmed that U.S. Central Command is actively targeting “mine-laying vessels” and “mine storage facilities” in the region. The Strait of Hormuz, located at the mouth of the Persian Gulf, is one of the world’s most vital energy chokepoints, facilitating the passage of oil tankers from countries such as Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates. Approximately 20% of the global oil supply transits through this narrow waterway, underscoring its importance for energy stability worldwide.
Even minor disruptions in the strait could trigger significant fluctuations in oil prices and have broader economic repercussions. Historically, during the “Tanker War” phase of the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s, Iran frequently deployed naval mines along key shipping routes. Reports from last year indicated that the Iranian military had also loaded naval mines onto vessels in the Persian Gulf, escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran following Israeli military actions against Iran.
With the ongoing conflict, several major maritime insurers have responded by restricting coverage for ships operating in Iranian waters and parts of the Gulf. Organizations such as NorthStandard, the London P&I Club, and the American Club have announced their intentions to suspend insurance policies due to the heightened risk of vessels becoming embroiled in the conflict.
As the situation continues to evolve, the international community remains watchful, aware that any escalation in hostilities could have far-reaching implications for global trade and energy markets.
