Pentagon says it will take 6 months to clear mines in the Strait of Hormuz, AP source says

Ships and boats in the Strait of Hormuz, Musandam, Oman, April 22, 2026. (Photo: Reuters)

WASHINGTON, April 23, 2026 (AP) — The Pentagon told US Congress this week it will likely take six months to clear the mines set in the strait, according to a person familiar with the situation who was granted anonymity to discuss the sensitive information.

Officials from the Department of Defense delivered the information during a classified briefing at the House Armed Services Committee on Tuesday.

The session left more questions than answers as lawmakers probed for information about the cost of the war against Iran, the strategy and objectives, the person said. The lawmakers also raised questions that have still gone unanswered about the strike on a school compound during the early days of the war.