We destroyed 10 mine-laying boats, says Trump as US strikes Iranian vessels near Hormuz

Iran has begun laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz, the world’s most critical energy chokepoint that carries about one-fifth of global crude oil supplies, according to two people familiar with US intelligence assessments, CNN reported.

The mining activity remains limited for now, with only a few dozen mines reportedly placed in recent days, sources told CNN. However, Iran still retains between 80% and 90% of its small boats and mine-laying capabilities, meaning it could quickly escalate by deploying hundreds more mines if it chooses to do so.

CNN previously reported that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which effectively controls the strait alongside Iran’s conventional navy, has the capacity to deploy a “gauntlet" of dispersed minelaying vessels, explosive boats and shore-based missile systems across the narrow waterway.