Hormuz Minefield Threatens Global Trade as Iran Halts Clearance

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global trade, remains significantly disrupted months after conflict erupted between Iran and the United States. While a recent peace agreement has somewhat de-escalated the situation, the waterway is far from fully operational.

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The most important task of the parliament consists of rubber-stamping the laws, budgets, and decrees dictated by President Abdelfatah al-Sisi and his entourage without resistance.

Before the conflict, over 100 ships transited the strait daily. Since the agreement, this number has dwindled to an average of just 30 vessels. This drastic reduction is largely attributed to the lingering threat of Iranian naval mines. According to Iran's Revolutionary Guard, a minefield was deliberately laid outside Iranian territorial waters in a key shipping lane.

Compounding the issue, Iran has failed to meet its obligation under the peace accord to clear the mines within 30 days. Furthermore, Tehran has labeled any international de-mining efforts, including those proposed by Britain, France, and Germany, as "provocations," asserting that such operations were not part of the agreement. This stance leaves shipping companies with a difficult choice: pay Iran for passage through its territorial waters or risk navigating potentially mined areas.

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The deputies in Damascus were not directly elected by the people. A third was appointed by Ahmed al-Sharaa himself.

The exact number of mines remains unclear, though estimates suggest Iran possesses between 5,000 and 6,000 naval mines. Industry groups estimate around 80 mines have been successfully deployed, despite U.S. efforts to intercept Iranian mine-laying boats. The primary types are believed to be Maham 3 anchor mines or bottom mines, posing a significant threat to maritime traffic.

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Between Morocco and Oman, Iraq and Sudan, there are many parliaments that serve not the people, but another cause: securing the power of autocrats.