Iran threatens to mine Persian Gulf if US or Israel attack its coasts

Iran issued a stark warning Monday that it would deploy naval mines across the Persian Gulf if the US and Israel attack its coasts or islands, a move that could effectively shut down one of the world's most critical maritime routes. The threat escalates tensions as the conflict enters its fourth week.

Mining threat detailed

In a statement reported by Fars news agency, Iran's National Defense Council said any attempt by "the enemy" to target Iranian coasts or islands would lead to the mining of access routes and communication lines throughout the Gulf. The measures would include various types of naval mines, including floating mines that could be launched from shore. The council warned that in such a scenario, the entire Persian Gulf "would face conditions similar to the Strait of Hormuz for an extended period," effectively closing maritime routes, with responsibility falling on the party initiating the attack.

Strait conditions outlined

The council added that the only way for "non-belligerent countries" to safely transit the Strait of Hormuz would be "through coordination with Iran." The strategic waterway has already been effectively disrupted since early March, with approximately 20 million barrels of oil normally passing through daily. Its closure has driven up shipping costs and pushed global oil prices higher, compounding economic pressures from the conflict.

Escalating conflict

The threat comes amid the US-Israeli joint offensive against Iran launched Feb. 28, which has killed more than 1,300 people including former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran has retaliated with sustained drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq and Gulf countries hosting US military assets, causing casualties and infrastructure damage while disrupting global markets and aviation. Tehran's latest warning suggests the conflict could further expand to threaten the entire Persian Gulf's maritime navigation.