Iran is reportedly weighing the use of dolphins trained to carry mines as part of potential attacks on United States warships in the Strait of Hormuz, reflecting rising tensions despite a fragile ceasefire. The proposal comes as Tehran faces mounting internal pressure after a prolonged blockade sharply curtailed its oil exports, with some hardliners arguing that renewed military action may be less costly than enduring sustained economic strain.

Iran previously acquired military-trained dolphins from the Soviet navy in 2000, and the animals were said to have been prepared for missions involving explosives and attacks on naval targets. Alongside this unconventional option, Iran could deploy submarines and has threatened to disrupt undersea communication cables in the strategic waterway, moves that could significantly escalate regional and global tensions.

Shipping companies remain more concerned about surface attacks than underwater mines, though clearing any mines would be necessary to restore full transit through the narrow passage. The United States Navy maintains various mine detection and removal capabilities, including helicopters, sea drones and trained marine mammals, while defense firms continue developing unmanned and artificial intelligence-driven systems to improve minesweeping in potential conflict scenarios.