Iran threatens to mine Persian Gulf if US launches ground assault

Iran’s Defense Council has warned that it will mine all transit routes in the Persian Gulf if the United States initiates a ground operation against Iranian coasts or islands.

In a statement carried by the Fars news agency, the council said the measure would be implemented “within established military conventions” and would involve various types of naval mines, including drifting mines.

“Any attempt by the enemy to attack Iran’s coasts or islands will lead to the mining of all transit and transportation routes in the Persian Gulf and along the coastline,” the council said.

Tehran ties Hormuz transit to its approval

Iranian authorities said neutral countries seeking passage through the Strait of Hormuz must coordinate with Tehran. The Defense Council also stressed that it would deliver a “decisive and destructive response to any violation.”

Since the outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East, maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz—critical to global energy supply—has largely come to a halt. Roughly 20% of the world’s oil and more than 30% of liquefied natural gas pass through the route. Some vessels attempting transit have been attacked by Iranian forces, according to reports.

US weighs island seizure option

US President Donald Trump on March 21 gave Iran a 48-hour deadline, warning that power plants would be targeted if the Strait of Hormuz was not reopened. Tehran responded by stating that Israel’s energy infrastructure is within range and could be “destroyed within a day.”

According to The Wall Street Journal, Washington is considering using Marines to seize one or more islands near Iran’s southern coast to secure safe passage through the strait.

Newsmax reported that the US has deployed six amphibious ships carrying thousands of Marines to the region.

Iran begins charging transit fees

Iran has shifted its approach to control over the Strait of Hormuz, beginning to demand a $2 million fee from some vessels. Officials said the measure has entered into force and reflects a “new sovereignty regime.”

The Washington Post reported that despite its losses, Iran has deprioritized a diplomatic exit in its confrontation with the US and Israel, instead seeking to intensify pressure by tightening control over the strait.