Abstract

This review examines Iran’s potential to mine the Strait of Hormuz and the time required for clearance by the United States and its allies. Drawing on historical cases and current naval capabilities, it finds that Iran could disrupt shipping within days to a few weeks, especially in narrow chokepoints, while full mine clearance under conflict conditions could take months or longer. Factors such as mine types, naval tactics, and limited countermeasure assets would slow down operations, while nonmilitary effects like insurance withdrawal could further halt trade. The study highlights serious risks to global energy security, as the strait carries a major share of world oil transit.