Strait of Hormuz mine clearance could take weeks, delaying shipping

The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil transit route, may face significant delays due to the extensive task of clearing potential mines. Shipping and maritime security experts suggest that a return to normal traffic could be postponed by several weeks, even after a preliminary agreement to end the conflict.

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We still consider it very risky for ships to commence transits at this point.

According to assessments from five Western maritime security sources, the operation involving conventional minesweepers and sophisticated underwater drones could take between 40 and 50 days. This duration is deemed necessary before insurance providers, shipping lines, and oil companies gain sufficient confidence to resume transits through the strategic waterway.

The potential delay carries significant economic implications. It could disrupt the flow of tens of millions of barrels of oil daily, further tightening global supplies. This comes at a critical time, as stockpiles in the world's largest economies are reportedly heading toward their lowest levels since at least 2003, according to recent analysis by the US Energy Information Administration.

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The threat of mines in the area remains a concern immediately as well as further down the line, and mine-free routes need to be established.

Despite recent quiet efforts by Iran and the US to facilitate passage through the blockaded strait, shipping officials are urging continued caution. Jakob Larsen, chief safety and security officer at the shipping association BIMCO, stated, "We still consider it very risky for ships to commence transits at this point." He added, "The threat of mines in the area remains a concern immediately as well as further down the line, and mine-free routes need to be established."

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One sea mine is enough to have fatalities.