US fears Iran could use mine-loaded vessels to choke Strait of Hormuz

US intelligence has assessed that Iran may be preparing to block the Strait of Hormuz by deploying naval mines on vessels in the Persian Gulf, following Israel’s missile strikes on Iranian military and nuclear sites in mid-June 2025. Although the mines were not deployed in the water, the preparations appeared deliberate and credible, raising concerns about potential disruption to a critical maritime chokepoint through which nearly 20% of the world’s oil supply passes. The US detected the mine loading via satellite and human intelligence but remains uncertain about the timing or current status of the mines on Iranian ships. In response to the strikes, Iran’s parliament passed a symbolic resolution supporting the closure of the Strait, reflecting domestic pressure, though the final decision rests with Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, which has not acted. Historically, Iran has threatened but never executed a closure of the strait. The US maintains naval presence through its Fifth Fleet based in Bahrain and credits recent operations, including Operation Midnight Hammer, with preserving freedom of navigation