The Pentagon has notified the US Congress that it may require up to six months to completely remove Iranian military mines from the Strait of Hormuz, a task that is unlikely to commence until the conflict concludes, as reported by the Washington Post. Meanwhile, unverified images circulating on social media suggest Iran is continuing to deploy mines in the area.
According to some social media users, satellite images allegedly depict Iranian gunboats traveling from the center of the Strait of Hormuz to the Iranian coastlines, where they are suspected of laying mines. The authenticity of these images has not been independently confirmed by the Mirror.
One user speculated on social media, suggesting that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) might be actively planting mines in the transit channel of the Hormuz Strait using numerous speedboats.
The Strait of Hormuz has been a focal point of tension in the ongoing conflict between the US and Iran. Following joint strikes on significant Iranian locations by the US and Israel since February 28, Iran responded by blocking the trade route crucial for 20% of global oil transport.
In an effort to influence negotiations and prompt the reopening of the trade route, the US has enforced a blockade on Iranian ports within the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to impact the Iranian economy.
Accusations have been directed at Iran for strategically placing mines in the strait, posing risks to maritime traffic and causing disruptions to global economies.