Why is Iran not reopening the Strait of Hormuz? Unseen dangers at sea
✦ AI Brief
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint due to Iran's inability to fully reopen it. The waterway, which carries nearly one-fifth of the world's oil supply, is unsafe due to naval mines deployed by Iran during the conflict. Many of these mines cannot be located, and removing them requires specialised equipment and trained personnel, a process that Iran lacks the capacity to carry out quickly. Security concerns and possible disruptions also complicate the situation.