Trump Plays Down Threats of Hormuz Mines, Touts Alternate Route

President Donald Trump downplayed the threat posed by Iranian sea mines in the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping, even as other US officials have warned of their dangers.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Trump said American forces had “swept mines and we’ve gotten most of them, we think.” He also said the strait would open “immediately” upon Iran signing a memorandum of understanding to cease armed hostilities “subject to a couple of areas being cleaned out, also of mines.” Tehran has balked at Trump’s peace terms and has yet to agree to a deal.

Trump also appeared to allude ...