TEHRAN: Iran has reportedly begun laying naval mines in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions in the region as the conflict between Iran and the United States and Israel intensifies. The move came shortly after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that it would not allow “a litre of oil” to pass through the vital waterway if attacks against Iran continued. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, handling nearly 20% of global oil shipments. US Claims Destruction of Iranian Mine-Laying Boats US President Donald Trump said American forces had launched strikes on Iranian vessels involved in mine-laying operations. According to the United States Central Command, at least 16 Iranian minelaying boats and ships were destroyed near the Strait of Hormuz. Video footage released by the command reportedly shows vessels being struck and exploding after missile attacks. Trump warned that if mines were deployed in the waterway and not removed immediately, Iran would face unprecedented military consequences. Iran Launches New Regional Attacks Iran also launched a new wave of missile and drone attacks across the region. Iranian officials claimed they carried out the “most intense and heaviest” missile barrage against Israel for three hours, with explosions and air raid sirens reported in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. The Saudi Ministry of Defence said it intercepted seven drones heading toward the Shaybah oil field, one of the kingdom’s major energy facilities operated by Saudi Aramco. War Spreading Across the Region The conflict has expanded beyond Iran and Israel, affecting several countries in the Middle East: Israeli strikes reported in Beirut and Tehran Attacks targeting US-linked facilities in Iraq Drone and missile interceptions across Gulf states According to the Pentagon, seven US service members have been killed and about 140 injured since the start of the war. Global Economic Impact The conflict has already triggered sharp oil price fluctuations and fears of global supply disruptions. World leaders are expected to discuss the crisis, with Group of Seven leaders scheduled to hold an emergency meeting on the war’s economic impact. The International Energy Agency is also considering releasing emergency oil reserves to stabilise markets. Experts warn that prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could significantly affect global energy supplies, shipping routes and fuel prices worldwide.
Iran Begins Laying Mines in Strait of Hormuz as Middle East War Escalates
