The U.S. has intensified its minesweeping operations in the Strait of Hormuz after reports that Iran deployed additional naval mines, disrupting a key global oil route.

President Trump announced expanded efforts and authorized aggressive action against any Iranian vessels laying mines.

Several U.S. ships and underwater drones are involved, though the full scope of operations remains unclear.

The U.K. and other European nations are preparing to assist, but a coordinated multinational effort is still in early stages, the New York Post has reported.

Clearing the strait could take months, and despite claims that the mines pose limited danger, commercial shipping has largely avoided the area.