Clearing Mines From Strait Could Take 6 Months

A new assessment shared with U.S. lawmakers highlights how difficult it could be to reopen one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes after the conflict with Iran. According to details from a classified Pentagon briefing described to the Washington Post, removing Iranian sea mines from the Strait of Hormuz could take as long as six months—and that effort might not even begin until fighting has stopped.

Such a delay could prolong the impact on energy markets, keeping oil and gasoline prices high even after any ceasefire. That’s a concern for the White House as voters head toward midterm elections already frustrated by rising costs and President Trump’s decision to enter the conflict. The national average for gasoline has climbed to $4.02 per gallon, compared to $2.98 before the war began.

Lawmakers were told by officials that Iran may have placed at least 20 mines in the strait. Some of these devices are believed to use GPS technology for remote deployment, making them harder to locate in a narrow passage that typically handles about 20% of global oil shipments.

The Pentagon has pushed back on reports of the six-month timeline, calling it inaccurate and accusing the Washington Post of spreading false information, while offering no detailed alternative estimate. The reported timeline also contrasts with President Trump’s recent statement on social media claiming that Iran, with assistance from the United States, has already begun removing the mines or completed the task.

Experts caution that even limited disruption in the strait could discourage commercial shipping and unsettle global energy markets for an extended period.

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