US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that he had no information that Iran had mined the Strait of Hormuz, but if any explosives had been planted, they were to be removed immediately.
“If for some reason the mines are planted and are not removed, the military consequences for Iran will be at a level never seen before,” the leader warned in a post on his Truth social media site. “On the other hand, if they remove what was supposed to be planted, it will be a huge step in the right direction!” – he added.
What did Donald Trump say about mines in the Strait of Hormuz?
What are the US missile capabilities according to Trump?
How many naval mines might Iran have?
What actions has Iran taken in the Strait of Hormuz region?
Donald Trump on reports regarding Iran. “The problem will be solved”
The US president said his country was using its missile capabilities, which have been used previously against drug traffickers, to permanently eliminate any boat or ship attempting to mine the Strait of Hormuz. “The problem will be solved quickly and brutally,” he stressed.
Donald Trump spoke about Iran's actionsDonald Trump/Truth Social
“I am pleased to report that in the last few hours we have hit and completely destroyed 10 inactive mining cutters or vessels, with more to follow soon. [ataki]” – added the US president in another entry.
Donald Trump announced the destruction of 10 boats that were supposed to mine the Strait of HormuzDonald Trump/Truth Social
Iran announced a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz
American intelligence has observed signals that Iran is taking steps to mine the Strait of Hormuz, American television CBS News reported on Tuesday. Tehran will use small boats, each of which can transport two to three mines.
There is no public information on how large Iran's stockpile of naval mines is. Over the years, it has been estimated that they may range from 2,000 to 6,000. pieces. These are mines made by Iran, China and Russia.
According to CNN sources, the process is not yet advanced. Dozens of mines have been planted in recent days. However, Iran still has 80 percent in stock. up to 90 percent small boats and mine-laying vessels, said one of the informants. This means Iranian forces could place hundreds of explosives along the route.
Iranian forces threatened in early March to strike any vessel attempting to pass through Hormuz. Since then, Tehran has attacked approximately 10 ships in the region.
On Monday, US President Donald Trump called on tanker captains to pass freely through the Strait of Hormuz and “show some courage.” The leader added that “there is nothing to be afraid of.”
