Iran may not be able to fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz after laying naval mines, according to US officials cited by The New York Times, raising concerns over continued risks to international shipping.
Officials say Tehran lacks the capacity to detect and neutralise all the mines believed to have been placed in the strategic waterway. The exact number and location of these devices remain unclear and have not been independently verified, while Iranian authorities have not issued detailed public comments.
According to the report, some of the mines may have drifted due to sea currents, making them harder to track and increasing the risk for vessels passing through the area. This has created potentially unsafe navigation zones in one of the world’s most critical maritime corridors.
The Strait of Hormuz is a key global energy route, with a significant share of the world’s oil supply passing through it. Any disruption or uncertainty in the area can directly impact global markets and supply chains.
Maritime security experts note that clearing naval mines in such a complex environment is a slow and technically demanding process, requiring specialised equipment and coordination. Even under optimal conditions, full clearance can take considerable time.
For now, the situation remains uncertain. Even if political tensions ease, the physical threat posed by naval mines could continue to affect international shipping for an extended period.