US says Iran cannot locate or clear mines in the Strait of Hormuz

Insights

• Iran laid sea mines in the Strait of Hormuz in March after US and Israeli strikes began against the country.
• US officials say Iran cannot find all the mines and lacks the capability to remove them quickly.
• Some mines were not recorded and others were placed so they could drift, which complicates clearance.
• Mines plus threats of drone and missile attacks have sharply reduced shipping and driven up energy prices.
• Iran left a narrow toll route open and the issue of reopening the strait is expected to be discussed at talks in Pakistan between Iranian and US delegations.