Mines in Hormuz: Why a Peace Deal Won’t Restart Shipping

A peace deal between Iran and the United States may not be enough to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to cargo ships. Iran’s previous threats to mine the waterway have created lasting safety concerns, according to weapons expert Hans Liwång. “I think many shipping companies are still hesitant, even if there is a signed agreement,” Liwång says. He argues that a simple treaty is insufficient. Both countries must take joint, trust-building actions to prove the strait is safe for navigation. Until then, global shipping remains at a standstill.