Iranian media publishes Strait of Hormuz mine maps

9th Apr 2026 11:39

(Sharecast News) - Iranian media published a chart overnight on Thursday suggesting the country deployed sea mines in the Strait of Hormuz during its recent conflict, raising fresh concerns over the safety of one of the world's most critical shipping routes.

Reports from semiofficial outlets including ISNA and Tasnim indicated that Iran's Revolutionary Guard may have placed mines along the Traffic Separation Scheme, the main channel used by commercial vessels transiting the strait.

The chart, dated 28 February to 9 April, marked a large "danger zone" over the shipping lane and advised vessels to divert via northern waters closer to Iran's mainland, near Larak Island.

They did not confirm whether any mines had since been cleared, and the publication of the chart appeared to serve as a potential pressure tactic amid a fragile two-week ceasefire between Iran, the United States and Israel, with negotiations expected to follow.

Additional reports indicated that Iranian authorities had outlined alternative "protected" routes for vessels, with guidance suggesting ships coordinate with Iran's naval forces when transiting the strait to avoid potential danger.

Some vessels were reportedly observed using the alternative routes during the conflict.

The situation added to uncertainty over the status of the strait, which remains a key artery for global energy supplies.

While Iranian officials were cited as suggesting restrictions on transit at points during the conflict, the United States maintained that the waterway should remain open and called for its immediate reopening in line with ceasefire conditions.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.