U.S. Allies Question Trump's Claims on Mine Clearance in the Strait of Hormuz

U.S. allies privately assess that there may still be mines in the Strait of Hormuz, despite some progress made by the U.S. in clearing mines in international waters. It is estimated that not all of the 80 to 150 mines laid by Iran have been cleared, and some mines may have drifted from their original positions due to ocean currents. Trump has repeatedly claimed that all mines in the strait have been cleared, stating that the Hormuz is a "very normal operating strait." The U.S. Central Command declined to comment on the number of mines, with analysts suggesting that the likelihood of all mines being cleared is "extremely low." Even if the mine threat is reduced, commercial vessels remain within the range of Iranian drones and short-range missiles, and many ships are beyond the coverage of U.S. air defense systems. The International Maritime Organization has stated that there is no precise information on mine clearance and has urged vessels to remain cautious. Iran claims that only it knows the locations of the mines and has warned that U.S. mine-clearing vessels could become targets. Currently, Iran and Oman are discussing the establishment of a "temporary joint maritime corridor" and mine clearance projects, while the UK and France are also planning post-ceasefire mine clearance and shipping security operations.