Washington: The United States has initiated efforts to remove Iranian naval mines from the Strait of Hormuz in a bid to resume maritime traffic through one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes, according to Hindustan Times. The development comes amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran, which have disrupted shipping operations in the region.
President Donald Trump stated that the US Navy is actively engaged in clearing the mines, describing the operation as part of a broader attempt to reopen the strategic waterway. The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage connecting the Persian Gulf to global markets, plays a vital role in energy supply chains, carrying a significant share of the world’s oil shipments.
However, officials have indicated that the process of detecting and neutralising the underwater explosives could be lengthy and complex. Pentagon authorities reportedly informed lawmakers during a classified briefing that clearing the mines may take several months, potentially extending up to six months due to the scale and difficulty of the task.
The mine-clearing mission is being viewed as one of several steps taken by the US administration to stabilise the situation in the strait and restore confidence among global shipping companies. Despite these efforts, experts caution that even after mines are removed, commercial vessels and insurers may remain hesitant to resume normal operations until safety is fully assured.
The ongoing disruption has raised concerns about global energy markets, as prolonged instability in the region could affect oil prices and supply chains worldwide. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely while advancing operations to secure the passage.
The US administration maintains that ensuring safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz remains a top priority, as efforts continue to mitigate the broader economic impact of the crisis.
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