The White House prioritizes reopening the Strait of Hormuz, but mine clearance may take up to six months, impacting energy markets and politics.
The complete reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to commercial traffic is among the top priorities of the White House, while it has been suggested that the threat of mines in the region may take longer to eliminate than previously expected.
According to a report by the Washington Post, internal assessments from the Pentagon indicate that mine-clearing operations in the Strait of Hormuz could take up to six months, even if hostilities cease. This process could lead to prolonged volatility in energy markets and extend its political implications until the U.S. midterm elections.
Briefing Provided to Congress
According to information in the report, members of the U.S. House Armed Services Committee were briefed on mine-clearing activities in the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday. It was reported that a senior official from the Pentagon stated that it could take six months to clear all mines in the strait.
It was noted that this estimate indicates a longer timeframe than previously reflected in official assessments made public.
Approximately 20 Mines Estimated in the Region
The six-month timeframe is based on an estimated 20 mines currently believed to be in the strait. However, experts suggest that this number could increase considering the course of the conflicts and Iran's new mine-laying capabilities.
It is estimated that Iran possessed thousands of naval mines before the conflict, but the current stock quantity has not been disclosed to the public.
Danger Zone Declared
While the exact locations of the mines are unknown, it has been reported that the Iranian side published a 'danger zone' map for ships and warned them to stay clear of the traffic separation scheme (TSS) in the middle of the strait.
Despite this, it has been stated that many commercial vessels are passing through the waters of Oman, located south of the designated risk area. Additionally, dozens of vessels have been recorded navigating around the islands of Larak, Qeshm, and Hormuz in Iranian territorial waters.
Iranian Tankers Continue Their Transits
According to data from the Financial Times and TankerTrackers.com, it has been suggested that some Iranian tankers have occasionally used the aforementioned route for transit. So far, no reports of mine explosions or vessel damage have been reported in the region.
Source: SeaNews Türkiye
