Why is Iran not reopening the Strait of Hormuz? Unseen dangers at sea

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The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint in the conflict between the US, Iran, and Israel, with Iran unable to fully reopen the strategic waterway due to naval mines it deployed. The situation has become central to ongoing diplomatic efforts, with the US calling for a complete and safe reopening of the strait.
The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow passage between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, carrying nearly one-fifth of the world's oil supply. Iran's inability to restore normal shipping traffic is due to naval mines it deployed during the conflict. Many of these mines cannot be located, making the waterway unsafe. Shipping companies are unwilling to resume normal operations without verified safe routes. The US has warned Iran of severe consequences if the strait is not opened to full and safe traffic. Iran lacks the capacity to carry out large-scale mine-clearing operations, and security risks such as drone or missile attacks remain. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing to address the issue, with the US calling for a complete and safe reopening of the strait.
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