The Strait of Hormuz has reopened under a fragile United States-Iran deal, but it remains under close watch after maritime authorities warned of suspected and confirmed mines in the area. Former French Navy Admiral Éric Lavault – who headed France's mine warfare and seabed operations, and commanded the navy's bomb-disposal divers – told RFI that even without proof the strait has been mined, it must be checked before commercial shipping can return to normal.
There is no independent confirmation that Iran has mined the waterway, but maritime authorities have warned of suspected and confirmed mines in the area and vessels have reported seeing floating objects.
