The Washington Post reports that clearing mines from the Strait of Hormuz could take up to six months, according to a senior Defense Department official who briefed lawmakers.
The assessment suggests gasoline and oil prices could remain elevated long after any peace deal is reached.
Officials told lawmakers Iran may have emplaced about 90 mines in the waterway around the start of the conflict.
Before the war, about 20% of global oil moved through the Strait of Hormuz, making any disruption significant for energy markets.
