Iran may mine Strait of Hormuz if US backs Israeli strikes, officials warn

As Middle East tensions rise, U.S. officials have warned that Iran could resort to mining the strategic Strait of Hormuz if American forces intervene in support of Israel’s military operations—a move that could trap U.S. warships in the Persian Gulf and ignite a broader regional conflict.

According to intelligence reviewed during the Trump administration and reported by The New York Times, Iranian forces could swiftly begin laying mines in the strait in response to a U.S. attack, effectively aiming to immobilize American naval power in the region.

This threat adds to mounting concerns that the conflict, already volatile, could escalate into a direct military clash between Iran and the United States.

The warning follows reports that Tehran has prepared ballistic missiles and other weapons to target U.S. military bases across the Middle East should Washington actively support Israeli strikes—particularly any operation against Iran’s underground Fordo nuclear facility.

In response, the U.S. has placed over 40,000 troops stationed across the region—including in the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia—on high alert.

Iran has openly signaled its readiness to retaliate. “Our enemies should know that they cannot impose their will on the Iranian people through military action,” said Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Monday. “Any escalation will be their responsibility.”

American officials have noted that Iran’s missile infrastructure already covers key U.S. bases in Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE, meaning Iran could strike with minimal preparation.

Meanwhile, discussions are reportedly underway in Washington about a potential U.S. strike, possibly involving B-2 stealth bombers and the Massive Ordnance Penetrator, especially if Israeli forces fail to breach Iran’s fortified nuclear defenses.

However, experts caution that military escalation would likely backfire.
“It is never too late not to start a war,” said Rosemary Kelanic of the Washington-based think tank Defense Priorities. She warned that U.S. military involvement could significantly increase Iran’s motivation to develop a nuclear weapon.