Financial Times: The Hidden War Between Iran and the US Over Mines in the Strait of Hormuz
The Financial Times has reported that the US has conducted secret and risky operations in recent months to identify and neutralize potential mines in the Strait of Hormuz. These operations have utilized Navy divers, robotic vessels, and underwater equipment equipped with sonar. Despite US claims of clearing international routes in the Strait of Hormuz, maritime experts still doubt the complete removal of the mine threat. According to the Financial Times, Iran also claims that only Tehran knows the precise location of the mines and has dismissed claims of their complete clearance. In such circumstances, the uncertainty about undiscovered mines has itself become a deterrent tool, as even without a ship hitting a mine, the mere possibility of their presence can dissuade ship owners, shipping companies, and insurers from passing through this vital waterway. Insurance costs for some vessels have also sharply increased due to heightened security risks.