00:22The world's most critical oil artery is now a battlefield beneath the surface.
00:28As tensions surge in the Strait of Hormuz, the US Navy has quietly launched a high-risk mission to hunt
00:36and clear sea mines believed to be planted by Iran.
00:40It's a dangerous, slow-moving operation, and it could determine whether global shipping resumes or grinds to a halt.
00:49According to the Wall Street Journal report, the United States Navy is deploying advanced unmanned underwater drones
00:56to scan the seabed. These systems, known as uncrewed underwater vehicles,
01:01are designed to detect and neutralize mines without putting sailors directly in harm's way.
01:08Among them are cutting-edge platforms like Knifefish and Kingfish, equipped with high-resolution sonar to identify hidden threats below
01:17the surface.
01:18The goal is clear — reopen the Strait safely.
01:22Nearly 20% of the world's oil supply passes through this narrow corridor.
01:28Even the suspicion of mines is enough to disrupt global trade.
01:33US officials say Iran began laying mines as early as March, using small boats to cede the Strait during the
01:40early phase of the conflict —
01:41a move designed to exert control without direct confrontation.
01:46But now, even Iran appears to be struggling to track and remove all of its own devices,
01:52turning the Strait into a volatile maze of unseen danger.
01:57In addition to drone operations, Washington has dispatched specialised mine-clearing ships,
02:02including reinforcements from Japan, to support the effort.
02:06Just days ago, Iran reimposed tight control over the Strait, forcing multiple tankers to turn back,
02:14and even firing warning shots at vessels attempting passage.
02:18Tehran says the restrictions are a response to the ongoing US naval blockade of its ports,
02:24calling it a breach of trust.
02:27Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has doubled down, insisting the blockade will remain in full force
02:33until a broader agreement is reached.
02:36Shipping companies remain cautious, many delaying transit until routes are confirmed safe.
02:43Reopening the Strait isn't just about trade, it's about leverage.
02:48But until every mine is found and every lane declared safe,
02:52the Strait of Hormuz remains a high-stakes gamble.
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