US Sinks Iranian Minelayers as Strait of Hormuz Mining Threat Intensifies
U.S. Central Command says American forces sank 16 Iranian minelayers near the Strait of Hormuz amid reports Tehran was laying mines, as President Trump warned of unprecedented military consequences if mines aren’t removed. Experts say even limited mining could disrupt global shipping, raise insurance costs, and lift oil prices; Iran is believed to retain thousands of mines, keeping the Strait a high-risk chokepoint for energy flows. The development underscores ongoing risks to shipping lanes and energy markets amid heightened tensions.
