The Washington Post has reported that American forces may need six months to clear mines laid in the Strait of Hormuz by Iran, potentially causing higher gas prices beyond the midterms. Pentagon officials briefed lawmakers about the clearing timeline, which could take until after the war ends. However, President Donald Trump has stated that minesweepers are already being cleared the strait. Energy economist Ed Hirs warned that clearing the Strait is likely to take a long time due to damage to damaged facilities in the region. He also noted that the U.S. only imports about 490,000 barrels a day from countries that have been blocked. The closure of the Straitit has also negatively impacted the liquefied natural gas market.