The Pentagon has told the US Congress that it could take up to six months to fully clear naval mines from the Strait of Hormuz if they are deployed during a possible Iran conflict. Officials warned that the process would not be quick or simple.

According to The Washington Post, the Pentagon briefed the House Armed Services Committee that any operation to secure the Strait would be highly complex and time-consuming. It said such action would not happen immediately if fighting is ongoing.

Officials explained that clearing mines placed in the waterway would require large-scale naval operations. They estimated that at least six months would be needed to make the route safe for shipping.

The briefing also highlighted that conducting mine-clearing operations during active conflict would be extremely difficult. It stressed that a ceasefire or pause in fighting would be necessary for effective and safe operations.

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US officials reportedly assured lawmakers that Washington remains committed to keeping the Strait of Hormuz open. However, they also admitted that technical and operational challenges could slow down immediate results.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most important oil shipping routes in the world. Any disruption there could seriously affect global oil supply and increase pressure on international energy markets.

Experts say even a temporary blockage of the waterway could lead to higher fuel prices and wider economic uncertainty across many countries.