US operation in Strait of Hormuz prompts Iranian mine deployment

Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have escalated following a major US military operation that escorted millions of barrels of crude oil through the waterway while striking Iranian positions on Larak Island. The operation involved US air, naval, and space assets in the largest petroleum transit through the passage since hostilities began.

In response, Iranian forces deployed rocket-launched naval mines to maintain their maritime blockade. Tehran reiterated that the strait will remain closed until Washington meets specific conditions, including lifting oil sanctions, unblocking Iranian ports, unfreezing Tehran's foreign assets, and halting military operations across all fronts. Prior to the conflict, approximately 20 million barrels of crude oil passed through the strategic choke point daily.

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