Video: US says 16 Iranian vessels destroyed in Hormuz
What's the story
The United States military said it has destroyed 16 Iranian vessels allegedly used for laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command disclosed the figure, along with unclassified footage of some of the vessels, after President Donald Trump vowed to strike Iran "at a level never seen before" if it did not promptly remove any mines it may have deployed in the waterway.
Twitter Post
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U.S. forces eliminated multiple Iranian naval vessels, March 10, including 16 minelayers near the Strait of Hormuz. pic.twitter.com/371unKYiJs
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 10, 2026
Report
Iran has started laying mines in Strait of Hormuz
According to CNN, Iran has started laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz. The move has been confirmed by two sources familiar with United States intelligence reports on the matter. The mining activity is still limited, with only a few dozen mines laid in recent days, the sources said. Iran still possesses 80-90% of its small boats and mine layers, which means it could quickly increase its mining efforts if it chooses to do so.
Strategic control
Iran's military dominance in Strait of Hormuz
The CNN report added that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of Iran now effectively controls the Strait of Hormuz, along with Iran's traditional navy. This means the IRGC has the capability to deploy a "gauntlet" of dispersed mine-laying craft, explosive-laden boats, and shore-based missile batteries. An IRGC spokesperson said Tehran was determined to end the war but that his country would not allow "one liter of oil" to be exported from the region should attacks persist.
Presidential warning
Trump warns Iran, threatens 'never before seen' consequences
After the declaration, Trump issued a stern warning to Iran. He said on Truth Social: If Iran has put out any mines in the Hormuz Strait...we want them removed, IMMEDIATELY! Trump warned that if these mines are not removed, Iran will face consequences "at a level never before seen." He added that removing the mines would be a positive step toward resolving tensions.
Military response
US destroy Iranian minelayers
Following Trump's warning, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said on X that US Central Command has been destroying inactive mine-laying vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. The military later confirmed that they had destroyed multiple Iranian naval ships, including 16 minelayers. The uncertainty over oil movement through the Strait of Hormuz has led to volatility in the crude oil market. Prices have swung between over $90 and under $80 per barrel amid fears of supply disruptions.