Secretary of State Marco Rubio revealed that Iran has mined extensive areas of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global oil transport, where approximately 20% of the world's oil supply transits. This revelation indicates a more severe threat to commercial shipping than previously understood, as Iran has reportedly fired on commercial vessels and laid mines in international waters.
Rubio emphasized that any agreement with Iran must include commitments to cease attacks on commercial ships and assist in the removal of these mines. The ongoing conflict has already led to a significant decline in oil tanker traffic through the strait, resulting in the largest supply disruption in history.
Despite President Trump's earlier skepticism regarding the presence of mines, he has since ordered the U.S. Navy to take action against any vessels deploying mines. However, the exact number and locations of these mines remain uncertain, complicating efforts to restore normal shipping operations.
Analysts, including Jack Kennedy from S&P Global Market Intelligence, suggest that traffic through Hormuz is unlikely to return to pre-war levels without a comprehensive demining operation. The Pentagon has reportedly destroyed numerous mines and minelaying vessels, but the situation remains precarious, with the White House indicating that these disruptions are expected to be temporary