New York, United States – Web Desk: The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is facing delays due to difficulties in clearing underwater mines reportedly laid during recent hostilities, according to U.S. officials cited by The New York Times.
Officials said that following the outbreak of conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran, small boats were used to deploy naval mines in a disorganized manner across the strategic waterway.
They added that Iran did not maintain accurate records of mine placement, while shifting sea currents may have further displaced some of the explosives, complicating detection and removal efforts.
U.S. officials stated that, unlike landmines, naval mines are significantly more difficult to locate and neutralize, requiring specialized equipment and expertise.
As a result, maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remains disrupted. The strait is one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, handling nearly 20% of global oil shipments, and continued disruption is contributing to volatility in global energy markets.
