As the United States embarks on clearing mines from the Strait of Hormuz , it could draw on an arsenal of drones , explosive‑laden robots and helicopters to reduce risks, though de‑mining crews could still be vulnerable to Iranian attacks . The U.S. is trying to secure the strait from mines as part of efforts to end Iran’s disruption of shipping , which has severely curbed global energy supplies since the U.S. and Israel launched strikes against Iran at the end of February. But while the U.S.