U.S. Forces Sink 16 Iranian Minelayers Near Strait of Hormuz

U.S. forces have sunk several Iranian vessels, including 16 ships believed to be used for laying naval mines, near the Strait of Hormuz, according to the U.S. Central Command.

The action comes amid reports that Iran may be attempting to mine the strategic waterway, raising concerns about disruptions to global energy supplies and shipping routes.

The U.S. military said the vessels were targeted after intelligence indicated that Iran could be preparing to deploy naval mines in the strait.

U.S. President Donald Trump warned Iran that any attempt to mine the Strait of Hormuz would lead to serious consequences.

“If for any reason mines were placed and they are not removed immediately, the military consequences to Iran will be at a level never seen before,” Trump said in a statement on social media.

Reports from U.S. media outlets suggested that a limited number of mines may already have been placed in the waterway. Sources indicated that only a few dozen mines were deployed in recent days, but Iran is believed to have the capability to place hundreds more.

The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, is one of the world’s most important oil transit routes. According to energy consultancy Kpler, about 13 million barrels of crude oil per day passed through the strait in 2025, representing roughly 31% of global seaborne crude shipments.

Security analysts say even limited mining of the strait could significantly disrupt global shipping. Naval mines could damage vessels, increase insurance costs for shipping companies, and effectively block access to the Persian Gulf.

The conflict has already caused sharp volatility in oil markets. Oil prices surged close to $120 per barrel earlier this week before easing slightly. U.S. crude oil was last trading around $83.8 per barrel, while global benchmark Brent crude stood near $87.9 per barrel.

Shipping companies operating in the region have also faced rising risks. War risk insurance costs for oil tankers in the Middle East recently climbed to record levels, while some insurers have stopped providing coverage for ships operating in the Persian Gulf.

Meanwhile, the U.S. government has discussed measures to protect maritime trade in the region. President Trump said the United States could provide financial guarantees and possibly deploy naval escorts for commercial tankers passing through the strait if necessary.

However, reports indicate that the U.S. Navy has so far declined several requests from shipping companies to escort vessels, citing security concerns.

The situation remains tense as global energy markets and international shipping industries closely monitor developments in the Strait of Hormuz.