Donald Trump says US ‘completely destroyed’ 10 mine-laying vessels in Strait of Hormuz
Donald Trump says US ‘completely destroyed’ 10 mine-laying vessels in Strait of Hormuz
The United States has reportedly neutralized ten Iranian boats suspected of deploying mines in a critical global shipping route. These vessels were targeted near the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway linking the Persian Gulf to the Indian Ocean.
Every day, approximately 80 oil and gas tankers traverse this narrow 90-mile passage, transporting roughly one-fifth of the world’s crude oil. Iran has consistently asserted its dominance over this strategic channel, which serves as a lifeline for energy exports from the Middle East.
“I am pleased to report that within the last few hours, we have hit, and completely destroyed, 10 inactive mine-laying boats and/or ships, with more to follow!”
Donald Trump’s statement on Truth Social highlights the military’s recent strike, aiming to disrupt Iran’s ability to mine the strait. The president also warned: “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! If for any reason mines were placed, and they are not removed forthwith, the Military consequences to Iran will be at a level never seen before.”
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has claimed that any Arab or European nation expelling US and Israeli ambassadors would receive unrestricted access to the strait. However, maritime traffic has significantly declined since the US and Israel launched an attack on Tehran, leading Iran to target approaching ships.
Some vessels have managed to pass through the Hormuz by disabling their tracking systems, a tactic used to avoid detection. American intelligence reports suggest Iran is utilizing boats capable of carrying up to three naval mines, though the exact number of mines deployed remains unclear.
Experts note that while Iran could potentially block the strait with mines, large military ships are vulnerable to US strikes. This strategy allows Iran to exert pressure without a full-scale confrontation. As a result, insurers have raised premiums, deterring companies from sending ships through the region without coverage.
According to shipping data from Clarksons Research, about 3,200 ships—representing 4% of the world’s total ship tonnage—are currently inactive in the Gulf. Analysts warn that prolonged conflict risks global oil and gas prices, with European and Asian markets already experiencing sharp spikes in natural gas costs.
A barrel of oil recently reached £73, marking an 81% surge since the conflict began. The Trump administration claims these price hikes are temporary, but is reportedly pushing Israel to limit its attacks on Iran’s energy infrastructure to safeguard future US oil deals.
