Iran unable to locate its own sea mines in Strait of Hormuz, claims US

Tehran/Washington (The Uttam Hindu): Amid rising tensions in West Asia, a new complication has emerged over the Strait of Hormuz. According to officials from the United States, Iran is unable to fully reopen this crucial sea route because it cannot properly locate or remove the naval mines it had previously deployed.

This issue has become a major obstacle in the ongoing peace talks in Islamabad. The US delegation is being led by JD Vance, while senior Iranian officials are representing their side. Both countries are attempting to convert the temporary ceasefire into lasting peace, but the situation around the Strait of Hormuz remains unresolved.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical energy routes, through which nearly 20 percent of global crude oil supply passes. Any disruption directly impacts international oil prices.

Reports suggest that Iran deployed sea mines in the region last month using small vessels in response to attacks by the United States and Israel. However, many of these mines were laid without proper tracking, and some may have drifted or shifted from their original positions, making them difficult to locate. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has warned that ships could collide with these mines. Although limited safe passage maps have been issued, they are considered insufficient.

Donald Trump has stated that a two-week ceasefire can continue only if the Strait of Hormuz is reopened “fully, immediately, and safely.” Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the route can only be reopened considering technical limitations.

US officials believe that these “technical limitations” reflect Iran’s inability to effectively detect and clear the sea mines. As a result, the US is demanding safer maritime routes, while Iran continues to highlight operational challenges.

The crisis began after the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran escalated during February–March 2026. At the start of the conflict, Iran had largely blocked the Strait of Hormuz, affecting global energy supplies.

Currently, a two-week temporary ceasefire is in place, but both sides are accusing each other of violations. The US claims Iran is not adhering to the terms, while Iran alleges that Israel continues strikes in Lebanon.

Experts say that scattered sea mines make it difficult to fully secure the route. If safe navigation is not restored soon, global oil prices may see another sharp increase.