Iran Lays Mines in Strait of Hormuz; US Destroys 16 Mine-Laying Vessels

US intelligence confirmed Iran had begun laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz. Trump issued an ultimatum on Truth Social: 'If Iran has put out any mines in the Hormuz Strait...we want them removed, IMMEDIATELY!' and warned of 'death, fire and fury' if blocking continued. Trump announced the US had destroyed 10 'inactive mine-laying boats and/or ships' within hours. Gen. Caine confirmed CENTCOM is 'hunting and striking mine-laying vessels and mine storage facilities,' with a total of 16 mine-laying vessels eliminated. The IRGC claimed no US Navy warship had 'dared' approach the Strait of Hormuz, the Persian Gulf, or Sea of Oman during the war.