LATEST UPDATE ON THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ: Only a handful of ships have crossed the Strait since the war began. Traffic through the corridor has collapsed by more than 90%. The main concern now is naval mines. Iran has reportedly begun planting mines in the Strait of Hormuz. The primary reason behind this move is that the US has offered to escort ships across the Strait. Iran currently claims it has deployed only a few dozen mines. But analysts warn the country may have thousands more ready to deploy if the conflict intensifies. Trump has warned Iran to remove the mines or face consequences “never seen before.” At the same time, vessels attempting to cross the Strait are still being targeted. So far, at least 19 merchant ships have been damaged during the conflict. Right now, the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed.