US Intelligence Detects Possible Iranian Preparations to Mine Strait of Hormuz

US intelligence agencies have detected indications that Iran may be preparing to deploy naval mines in the Strait of Hormuz, according to a report by CBS News on Tuesday.

The network said recent intelligence assessments suggest potential Iranian preparations to plant mines in the strategic waterway, one of the world’s most critical routes for global energy shipments.

According to the report, Iran could use small boats capable of carrying between two and three naval mines each to carry out such operations.

While the exact size of Iran’s naval mine stockpile remains unclear, estimates over the years have ranged from 2,000 to 6,000 mines, including Iranian, Chinese, and Russian-made types.

Earlier on Tuesday, Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine said US forces had already targeted Iranian mine-laying vessels.

Speaking to reporters, Caine stated that US Central Command continues operations to locate and strike vessels suspected of deploying mines as well as facilities used to store them.

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital maritime corridor connecting the Persian Gulf to global markets, and any disruption to shipping through the passage could have significant consequences for international trade and energy supplies.