Iran has begun placing naval mines in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy corridor responsible for transporting about one-fifth of the world’s crude oil supply, according to sources familiar with US intelligence assessments.
Officials said only a few dozen mines have been deployed in recent days. However, Iran still maintains around 80–90% of its fleet of small boats and mine-laying vessels, meaning it could potentially scatter hundreds more mines across the strategic waterway.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which now effectively oversees the strait alongside Iran’s regular navy, is believed to have the capacity to form a defensive “gauntlet” involving dispersed mine-laying craft, explosive-laden boats and missile batteries positioned along the shoreline. The IRGC has previously warned that any vessel attempting to pass through the strait would be targeted, and the passage has effectively remained shut since hostilities began. US sources have described the area as a “death valley” because of the dangers facing ships attempting to transit the route.
US officials said the US Navy has not escorted commercial vessels through the strait so far. However, President Donald Trump said on Monday that his administration is evaluating possible measures to ensure safe navigation through the waterway.
