Washington: Iran has begun laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz, according to US officials, signaling potential disruptions in global shipping. This development follows the destruction of larger Iranian vessels by US forces, prompting Iran to utilize smaller boats for the operation.

According to Anadolu Agency, a US official briefed on the intelligence revealed that Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is deploying numerous smaller boats. These boats have historically been used to harass larger ships, including those belonging to the US Navy. The current mining effort by Iran is described as slow and not highly efficient. However, Iran appears to aim to deploy mines at a faster rate than they can be cleared, intending to further deter shipping through the Strait. This waterway is crucial, with approximately 20% of the world's crude oil and natural gas passing through it.

The situation escalated after Iran declared the strait closed following joint US and Israeli attacks on February 28, which disrupted shipping and led to increased oil prices. Since then, multiple strikes have hit vessels in the area, with Iran claiming responsibility for some. Despite these developments, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi denied that Iran was mining the strait.

In a rare statement, Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, emphasized the importance of continuing to use the "lever of blocking the Strait of Hormuz." Meanwhile, the US military has targeted 16 Iranian mine-laying ships. US President Donald Trump has also warned Iran of severe consequences if it continues to obstruct oil flows.

Mines in the region have historically posed a threat to shipping, with the Strait of Hormuz being a critical passage for one-fifth of the world's oil consumption and LNG trade. The ongoing activities by Iran remain a significant concern for US military and intelligence agencies.