US-Iran Framework Agreement Ends Military Campaign and Sets Terms for Reopening Strait of Hormuz

The United States and Iran signed a framework agreement on or before June 25, 2026, aimed at ending the US-Israel war on Iran that began February 28 and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Navigation through the strait has picked up since the signing. Iran is required under the agreement to clear any mines within 30 days as a condition for reopening the strait.

France and the United Kingdom are leading the demining effort, backed by Germany, Italy, Japan and Canada. Iran threatened early in the conflict to deploy various types of naval mines to block passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran did not comment on whether its forces had actually planted mines.

Tehran used the strait blockade as leverage in talks with the United States. Naval mines come in several forms. Bottom mines sit on the seabed and detect a vessel’s magnetic, acoustic or pressure signature.

Moored mines are anchored to the seabed by a cable and float just below the surface. Drifting mines are not attached to the seabed and move with currents and tides. Limpet mines are smaller explosive devices attached directly to a ship’s hull using magnets or clamps.

Mine countermeasures involve locating individual devices and destroying them in place or sweeping suspected areas. The United States and allied navies increasingly rely on underwater drones, robots and helicopters equipped with mine-hunting sensors.

Mine-clearing operations in the Strait of Hormuz could continue for weeks after any reopening agreement because every shipping lane must be searched repeatedly before insurers and shipping companies consider it safe.