US warns Hormuz mine clearance could take months, keeping oil prices high

US defense officials have told lawmakers that clearing naval mines from the Strait of Hormuz could take up to six months.

According to the reports shared with members of the House Armed Services Committee, it suggests that any mine-clearing operation is unlikely to begin until the ongoing conflict ends.  

This timeline has, however, raised concerns that global oil and gas prices could remain high for months. 

Moreover, officials believe Iran may have deployed more than 20 mines in and around the waterway. Some of these mines are reportedly GPS-guided and deployed remotely, making them difficult to detect, while others may have been placed using small boats. 

Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell acknowledged the classified briefing but called certain claims “inaccurate” and stressed that a prolonged closure of the strait would be unacceptable. 

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said there is “no time frame” for ending the conflict with Iran, adding further uncertainty to the situation. 

The ongoing tensions and disruption in the Strait of Hormuz have already upset the global energy markets.

Analysts warn that if the instability continues it could have lasting consequences worldwide.