According to US Energy Secretary Chris Wright, is full mine clearance necessary for the Strait of Hormuz to reopen to shipping?

No — Wright stated that 'not all mines placed by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz need to be removed for ships to resume transiting the vital passageway' and emphasized that 'you just need a pathway for ships to be moved in and out,' adding that 'I think that can happen quickly.'

What is the estimated time frame for fully clearing the Strait of Hormuz of mines, according to US defense officials?

A senior US Defense Department official said during a classified Congressional briefing that fully clearing the strait of mines 'could take six months,' as reported by the Washington Post.

Strait of Hormuz Can Open Without Clearing All Mines, US Energy Secretary Says

Apr 28, 2026

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated that clearing all mines isn't necessary for Strait of Hormuz transit, potentially easing global oil supply disruptions. He also announced historic pipeline agreements to boost US energy exports to Europe.

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Strait of Hormuz Can Open Without Clearing All Mines, US Energy Secretary Says

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