Iran has begun laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz, the world’s most critical energy chokepoint that carries about one-fifth of global crude oil supplies, according to two people familiar with US intelligence assessments, CNN reported.US-Israel-Iran War LIVE

The mining activity remains limited for now, with only a few dozen mines reportedly placed in recent days, sources told CNN. However, Iran still retains between 80% and 90% of its small boats and mine-laying capabilities, meaning it could quickly escalate by deploying hundreds more mines if it chooses to do so.

Also Read:Trump Announces First US Oil Refinery In 50 Years, Says Reliance To Back The Initiative

CNN previously reported that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which effectively controls the strait alongside Iran’s conventional navy, has the capacity to deploy a “gauntlet" of dispersed minelaying vessels, explosive boats and shore-based missile systems across the narrow waterway.

Dubai, Abu Dhabi, UAE, News LIVE

Reacting to the reports, President Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social on Tuesday: “if Iran has put out any mines in the Hormuz Strait, and we have no reports of them doing so, we want them removed immediately!"

He added that if mines were placed and not removed, Iran would face consequences “at a level never before seen." Trump also suggested that if Tehran removes “what may have been placed, it will be a giant step in the right direction!"

Also Read:US Calls India ‘Good Actor’ After Waiver On Russian Oil Purchase Amid Iran War

Following Trump’s remarks, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth posted on X that US Central Command, acting on Trump’s orders, “has been eliminating inactive mine-laying vessels in the Strait of Hormuz—wiping them out with ruthless precision. We will not allow terrorists to hold the Strait of Hormuz hostage."

US Central Command later confirmed in a social media statement that multiple Iranian naval vessels, including 16 minelayers, had been destroyed near the strait. According to CNN, US officials also clarified that the US Navy has not escorted any vessels through the waterway, even though Trump had earlier said his administration was considering that option.

Source: World News in news18.com, World Latest News, World News