The US Navy is working to clear Iranian mines from the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for oil shipments, after a ceasefire between the US and Iran.
Experts warn that sweeping for underwater explosives could take months, and even if the US clears the area, Iran could claim that some mines remain.
US officials estimate it will take six months to clear the mines, but Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth refused to confirm this timeline.
The US military is using divers and small teams of explosive ordnance disposal technicians to clear mines, rather than warships, which are a more visible target.
Germany is also sending a minesweeper to the Mediterranean, which could be deployed to the Strait of Hormuz after the US-Iran war ends.
