Iran laying mines in Strait of Hormuz — CNN

Iran has begun laying naval mines in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, according to two sources familiar with US intelligence assessments.

The Strait handles roughly one-fifth of global oil production, making it a strategic chokepoint for international energy supplies, Caliber.Az reports, citing CNN.

According to the sources, the mining effort has so far remained limited, with several dozen mines deployed in recent days. However, one source said Iran still retains about 80–90% of its small vessels and mine-laying ships, meaning it could potentially deploy hundreds of mines across the waterway if it chooses to escalate.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which now effectively controls the strait alongside Iran’s conventional navy, is capable of deploying a large dispersed force of mine-laying vessels, explosive-laden boats and coastal missile batteries.

The IRGC has previously warned that any ship passing through the Strait could be targeted. Since the outbreak of the conflict, the waterway has effectively been closed.

CNN described the situation in the Strait of Hormuz as a “valley of death” due to the significant risks faced by vessels attempting to transit the area.

US officials said on March 10 that the US Navy has not escorted any ships through the strait so far, although President Donald Trump said on March 9 that his administration was considering such a measure.

By Khagan Isayev