There is growing momentum to establish a naval protection system in the Strait of Hormuz as Iran's military increases its attacks on commercial ships. The Iranian regime is using civilian ports along the Strait to conduct military operations that threaten international shipping and put lives at risk. At least five cargo vessels were hit in the region, with at least four seafarers killed. The U.S. military destroyed 16 Iranian mine-laying naval vessels on Tuesday amid concerns Iran is preparing to deploy mines in the key waterway. Maritime expert Capt. Kees Buckens noted that it's easy for Iran to send out speedboats with bombs and missiles to attack ships. However, it is expected to take until the end of March or perhaps even the beginning of April to fully set up.