Iran begins laying mines in Hormuz, escalating tension at global oil choke point

Iran has begun laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz, the vital chokepoint through which a large portion of the world’s crude passes. Two US officials familiar with intelligence say a few dozen mines have been laid in recent days, and Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Corps along with its navy could deploy hundreds more, potentially closing the waterway. The situation has heightened security concerns and contributed to oil-market volatility as producers weigh alternate supplies. The US says it has not escorted vessels through the strait, while President Trump urged removal of any mines and warned of consequences if they are not removed.