Iran deploys sea mines in Strait of Hormuz following US oil operation

Military tension in the Strait of Hormuz has escalated following a major US crude oil transit and subsequent military strikes on Iran's Larak Island. In response, Iranian forces deployed rocket-launched sea mines in the strategic waterway. Tehran reiterated that the maritime corridor will not reopen until Washington fulfills several conditions, including unfreezing Iranian financial assets, ending port blockades, lifting sanctions on oil exports, and ceasing military operations.

Prior to the current conflict, approximately 20 million barrels of crude oil passed through the strait every day. The United States utilized extensive naval, aerial, and space monitoring assets during its recent transit operation, marking its largest crude transport through the passage since hostilities began.

Sources: Expresso, Expresso das Ilhas, RTP (Rádio e Televisão de Portugal)