A recent Pentagon assessment suggests that clearing the Strait of Hormuz of Iranian-laid mines could take up to six months, significantly affecting global oil and gas prices. The strait is a crucial waterway, through which one-fifth of the world's oil and gas typically passes. Since the onset of hostilities between Iran and the United States, the strait has remained largely closed, exacerbating economic disruptions worldwide. The assessment revealed that Iran may have deployed 20 or more mines, some of which are equipped with GPS technology, complicating detection efforts. Despite a shaky ceasefire, the U.S. naval blockade continues, with Iran's parliament speaker asserting that the strait will not reopen until the blockade is lifted. Meanwhile, military planners from over 30 countries are meeting in London to discuss a multinational mission aimed at ensuring navigation safety in the strait once hostilities cease.