The Pentagon has informed the US Congress that it may take up to six months to clear the Strait of Hormuz of Iranian military mines. The task is not expected to be completed until the conflict subsides, as reported by the Washington Post. Recent social media posts suggest that Iran is continuing to lay mines, with images purportedly showing Iranian gunboats moving from the middle of the Strait of Hormuz towards Iranian coastlines for this purpose. However, the authenticity of these images has not been independently verified.

Speculation on social media includes a user’s comment suggesting that the IRGC could be laying mines in the Hormuz transit channel using numerous speedboats. The strategic significance of the strait has been highlighted during the ongoing conflict between the US and Iran. Joint strikes on key Iranian sites by the US and Israel have escalated tensions, leading Iran to retaliate by blocking the trade route responsible for 20% of global oil trade.

In response, the US has enforced a blockade on Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz to pressure Iran into reopening the trade route and engaging in negotiations. Iran’s alleged actions of laying mines in the strait have raised concerns about the safety of ships passing through the area and the potential impact on global economies.