Iran begins laying mine under Strait of Hormuz

Iran has begun placing naval mines under the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz water, reports CNN.

Two US intelligence officials told CNN that Iranian forces have installed several dozen mines in the waterway over the past few days.

While there had previously been indications that Tehran was preparing to deploy mines, officials now say there is confirmation that the process has begun, though the number of mines laid so far remains limited.

According to the intelligence assessment, roughly 80% of the small vessels and equipment designated for mine-laying operations have not yet been used. This suggests Iran could rapidly expand the operation and deploy thousands of mines across the strait if it chooses.

The report said control of the area is shared between Iran’s navy and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which possesses weapons and naval capabilities that could enable it to establish an extensive mine barrier across the strategic passage.

Iranian forces could also reinforce the waterway with explosive-laden small boats and missile systems capable of targeting passing ships, further strengthening its defensive posture.

The development follows a warning issued last week by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which said any vessel attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz could be targeted and destroyed.