Naval mines are underwater explosives Iran deployed in the Strait of Hormuz during the 2026 conflict. Using small boats, they laid contact and influence mines (magnetic/acoustic) to threaten oil tankers and disrupt ~20% of global oil flow.
France and European allies (UK, Netherlands, etc.) say they have mine-clearing ships and divers ready for a defensive operation to reopen the strait safely—without US or Israeli involvement. The images show classic sea mines and the narrow waterway.