80 Sea Mines Persist in Hormuz — US Navy Remains as Demining Operations Commence

Following the memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran and the partial reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, marine director Phillip Belcher from the tanker trade organization Intertanko has reported that the primary central route of the Strait is still obstructed due to approximately 80 sea mines that are pending removal. Currently, vessels are navigating through the smaller northern route within Iranian waters and the southern passage through Omani waters. According to Lloyd's List, there are around 550 merchant ships trapped in the Persian Gulf, which includes 160 tankers, 200 bulk carriers, 60 container vessels, and 10 vehicle carriers. The US Navy has indicated that its enforcement of the blockade has stopped, yet its fleet continues to remain in the vicinity to monitor adherence to the ceasefire terms.