Iran has reportedly begun deploying mines in the Strait of Hormuz, according to PANews. Citing CNN, two individuals familiar with U.S. intelligence have revealed that Iran's current mining efforts are limited, with only dozens of mines laid recently. One source indicated that Iran retains 80% to 90% of its small boats and mine-laying vessels, suggesting the capability to deploy hundreds of mines in the waterway.
Additionally, a CBS journalist quoted sources stating that Iran uses small boats in the Hormuz channel, each capable of carrying two to three mines. While the exact number of mines Iran possesses remains undisclosed, estimates over the years suggest a stockpile ranging from 2,000 to 6,000 mines.
In response, U.S. President Donald Trump declared, "If Iran has laid any mines in the Strait of Hormuz—despite no current reports—we demand their immediate removal! Should Iran have indeed deployed mines and fails to remove them promptly, they will face unprecedented military consequences. Conversely, if they clear any mines that may have been laid, it would be a significant step in the right direction."