Iran mines ‘could disrupt Strait of Hormuz oil supply for 6 months’ | US | News
The Pentagon has informed Congress that it could take up to six months to completely clear Iran’s military mines from the Strait of Hormuz, and that such an operation is unlikely to begin until the United States’ conflict with Iran is over.
A senior U.S. Defense Department official presented the estimates to members of the House Armed Services Committee during a classified briefing on Tuesday, Express US reported, according to three sources familiar with the discussion.
That timeline, which has sparked outrage among Republicans and Democrats alike, is the latest sign that oil and oil prices could remain high even after a peace deal is reached.
The Washington Post first reported the assessment.
Such an outcome could have significant political ramifications around the world, particularly as we approach November’s midterm elections.
Latest polls show majority of Americans like President Donald Trump‘s decision to enter the conflict was a highly unpopular one, which fractured his base of voters who supported him in part because of his repeated promises to avoid international military entanglements and focus more closely on domestic issues.
The average price of a gallon of oil in the United States rose to $4.02 on Wednesday from $2.98 shortly before the conflict began in February, according to AAA.
Trump has been undecided on when oil prices will drop, stating this month that prices “may be the same or maybe a little bit higher” during the midterms and announcing that prices will be “a lot lower” before the election.
According to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, it could be late September “before we have $3 gasoline again.”
The three people, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the discussions, claimed MPs were told Iran may have placed 20 or more mines in and around the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for the movement of Middle East oil through the Persian Gulf.
A senior defense source told Congress that some mines were set remotely using GPS technology, making it increasingly difficult for U.S. forces to locate them. Iranian soldiers are believed to have deployed small boats to deploy the remaining devices.
In a brief response, a spokesman named Sean Parnell described the information as “inaccurate” and acknowledged that it had been disclosed during a confidential briefing to MPs.
“By deciding to publish these false claims, the Washington Post has made clear that they care more about advancing an agenda than facts,” the statement said.
