US intelligence detected Iran loading naval mines onto vessels in Persian Gulf last month

Iran's military loaded naval mines onto vessels in the Persian Gulf last month according to two U.S. officials, raising concerns in Washington about a potential blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. This move followed Israel's strikes on Iranian sites. The mines have not been deployed yet, but their presence indicates Tehran's seriousness about closing this key shipping route.

Around 20% of global oil and gas shipments transit through the strait, and a blockade could spike energy prices. Although U.S. officials acknowledge the possibility of the mines being a ruse, Iran has previously threatened to close the strait without following through.

U.S. intelligence likely detected the mine loading through satellite imagery or human sources. Meanwhile, the Pentagon and Iran's U.N. mission declined to comment on the situation.