Iran Prepared to Block Strait of Hormuz with Sea Mines After Israeli Strikes, U.S. Intelligence Reveals

Reported by Kokcha News Agency:
The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global oil transit route, came under renewed threat as Iran prepared to block the waterway following Israeli military strikes, according to a report by Reuters on July 2. Nearly 20% of the world’s oil and gas shipments pass through this narrow strait, making it a vital artery for the global economy. Any disruption, analysts warn, could trigger a dramatic surge in energy prices worldwide.

Sea Mines Loaded but Not Deployed
U.S. intelligence officials revealed that Iran had loaded sea mines onto several vessels as a preparatory step. Although the mines had not yet been deployed, their presence was interpreted as a clear signal of Tehran’s readiness to escalate the conflict if provoked further. The intelligence was reportedly collected in real time and assessed as a significant warning sign.

Political Backing for Closure
Iran’s Parliament had previously voiced support for closing the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel’s military actions. This political backing underscored Tehran’s strategic calculation, raising concerns about Iran’s willingness to use its control over the waterway as leverage in regional conflicts.

U.S. Response and Global Implications
The U.S. has long considered the closure of the Strait a red line, warning that such an action would not only destabilize the Middle East but also deal a blow to major economies—particularly China, which relies heavily on energy imports through the Gulf. The Trump administration reiterated its position that any attempt to block the strait would provoke a strong international response.

Potential for Global Chaos
Though the mines were never deployed, the incident highlights how quickly military and political friction in the region can escalate into a threat to global trade. U.S. officials noted that had Iran acted further, global energy markets and shipping routes could have been thrown into chaos.

Ongoing Tensions and Monitoring
As tensions between Iran and Israel remain high, the international community continues to monitor the Strait of Hormuz closely. The episode reinforces the fragile nature of maritime security in the Gulf—and the far-reaching consequences of regional conflicts in today’s interconnected world.