Iran claims new mines laid in Hormuz as Gulf tensions escalate

Iran claimed it had laid additional naval mines in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating an already tense confrontation with the United States over the strategic waterway.

Ebrahim Zolfaghari, spokesperson for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, said additional mines had been deployed along routes south of the strait. The number of mines allegedly deployed remains unclear.

Zolfaghari also mocked US claims of control over Hormuz, suggesting Washington could “rename” the waterway using Photoshop. The claim comes after President Trump said American forces had secured control of the strait. 

Meanwhile, Kuwait said its air defences were responding to Iranian missile and drone threats. The Kuwaiti military said explosions heard in the country were linked to interceptions of hostile targets and urged residents to follow safety instructions.

The escalation comes as Washington and Tehran continue exchanging attacks.