S8/10Geopolitical
Clearing Mines in the Strait of Hormuz: Q&A with Scott Savitz
Scott Savitz is a senior engineer at RAND, a specialist in naval operations and technologies, and an expert in mine warfare. In this interview he discusses the threat of naval mines and the challenge of clearing the Strait of Hormuz.
19 May 2026, 20:00 UTCSource: RAND
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⚠️ A model estimate of cascade risk — not a guarantee and not buy/sell. Calibration uses resolved outcomes only; monitor confirmation indicators below.
A
Escalation— 69% model probability
Confirmation indicators
- ◆Reports of Iranian navy vessels targeting commercial ships; US sanctions against Iranian shipping companies; increased military presence in the region by regional powers like Saudi Arabia and UAE.
Horizon: 20–40 days
B
Status quo— 23% model probability
Confirmation indicators
- ◆Reports of Iranian navy vessels targeting commercial ships; US sanctions against Iranian shipping companies; increased military presence in the region by regional powers like Saudi Arabia and UAE.
Horizon: 20–40 days
C
De-escalation— 9% model probability
Confirmation indicators
- ◆Reports of Iranian navy vessels targeting commercial ships; US sanctions against Iranian shipping companies; increased military presence in the region by regional powers like Saudi Arabia and UAE.
Horizon: 20–40 days