Khaberni - Two sources familiar with U.S. intelligence reports told CNN that Iran has started planting mines in the Strait of Hormuz, which is the most important waterway in the world for energy transport and accounts for about one fifth of the global crude oil.
The sources clarified that the mine planting operations are not yet widespread, as only a few dozen mines have been planted in recent days, but one source mentioned that Iran still retains between 80% and 90% of its small boats and mine planting machines, enabling its forces to plant hundreds of mines in the strait.
CNN sources mentioned that the “Revolutionary Guard”, which effectively controls the strait alongside the traditional Iranian Navy, possesses the capability to deploy a scattered fleet of mine planting boats, explosive-laden boats, and rocket batteries.
The “Revolutionary Guard” had previously warned that any ship crossing the strait would be attacked, and the strait has effectively been closed since the beginning of the war.
CNN sources described the situation of the strait as the "Valley of Death" due to the risks involved in crossing.
American officials said on Tuesday that the U.S. Navy had not escorted any ships through the strait, even though President Donald Trump stated on Monday that his administration is considering options to do so.
For his part, Trump stated on his platform “Truth Social” regarding the mines: “We have not received any reports of Iran planting mines in the Strait of Hormuz”, and he added that "if Iran has planted any mines in the Strait of Hormuz, we demand their immediate removal".
He continued: "If mines are found for any reason, and are not immediately removed, the military consequences for Iran will be unprecedented. However, if they remove what may have been planted, it will be a giant step in the right direction. In addition, we use the same technologies and missile capabilities that were used against drug smugglers to definitively eliminate any boat or ship attempting to plant mines in the Strait of Hormuz. They will be dealt with quickly and decisively.. Beware".
