France and Britain Lead Mine-Clearing Effort in Strait of Hormuz

Last week the United States and Iran signed a framework agreement to end the U.S.-Israel war on Iran and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Navigation through the waterway has increased since the signing, though shipping traffic has not yet returned to pre-February 28 levels.

Under the agreement Iran must clear any mines within 30 days. France and the United Kingdom are leading the demining effort, backed by Germany, Italy, Japan and Canada.

Naval mines are underwater explosives that can damage or sink ships. Bottom mines rest on the seabed and detonate when a vessel passes overhead. Moored mines float just below the surface and explode on contact or proximity. Drifting mines move with currents and tides, while limpet mines attach directly to a ship’s hull.

Mine countermeasures involve locating devices with sonar-equipped drones and remotely operated vehicles. Once identified, mines can be destroyed by controlled detonation, deactivated by divers, or triggered and cut loose through minesweeping. The process is slow because every shipping lane must be searched repeatedly.

Reuters reported that mine-clearing operations could continue for weeks after any reopening because insurers and shipping companies require repeated confirmation that lanes are safe.