A potential agreement between the US and Iran has sparked optimism regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil transport. Both US President Trump and Iranian news agency Tasnim indicate the strait could reopen as early as Friday. However, experts caution that a full return to normal oil trade will be gradual, taking weeks to materialize even after the passage is cleared. A key concern is the presence of sea mines within the strait, and uncertainty surrounds who will undertake the dangerous task of clearing them. Shipping companies are hesitant to navigate the route until mine clearance is confirmed, and new insurance policies must be secured, adding further delays. Approximately 500 ships, including vessels with around 80 Dutch sailors, are currently stalled in the Persian Gulf, awaiting safe passage. While cautiously optimistic, maritime unions emphasize the need for confirmed safety before resuming transit.