'A very strange event': Iran’s Hormuz mine threat may have begun as a bluff, former Navy chief says

Iran may have initiated mine-laying in the Strait of Hormuz only after publicly announcing it, theorized former Israeli Navy commander Maj. Gen. (res.) Eliezer "Cheny" Marom. He described the situation as "a very strange event," noting the lack of observed mines despite Iran's claims.

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This is a very strange event.

Marom suggested Iran decided to "not reveal their bluff and chose to actually place a few mines there" after claiming the US attacked boats involved in mine placement. He explained that planting mines has become a less popular tactic due to the inherent dangers. "If a tanker suddenly explodes with a thousand tons of fuel, we can see what they fear. Imagine a huge ship carrying two million barrels exploding, and all the fuel spreading across the sea. Those are horrific images no one wants to see," he said.

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The Iranians claimed they planted mines in the Strait of Hormuz, but I haven’t seen any mines so far. Suddenly, they say the Americans attacked boats that came to place mines. I think the Iranians decided not to reveal their bluff and chose to actually place a few mines there.

Regarding Iran's demands for a ceasefire that includes Lebanon and its lack of response to US strikes, Marom interpreted this as a sign of willingness to continue negotiations. "The Americans strike, and the Iranians don’t respond, which signals they want to continue negotiating," he stated. Marom believes Tehran views the situation as a success, feeling it is in a strong position and has "won the war."

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If a tanker suddenly explodes with a thousand tons of fuel, we can see what they fear. Imagine a huge ship carrying two million barrels exploding, and all the fuel spreading across the sea. Those are horrific images no one wants to see.

Marom also addressed the security concerns of residents in northern Israel, urging the government to "step up." He emphasized the need for clear communication from leadership, even about difficult situations. He illustrated the pervasive insecurity by recounting a friend's need to perform a "situational assessment" before showering, due to the constant threat of needing to reach a safe room quickly.

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The Americans strike, and the Iranians don’t respond, which signals they want to continue negotiating.