Iran is reportedly considering unconventional maritime tactics in the Strait of Hormuz, including the potential use of trained dolphins equipped with explosive devices, according to recent media reports. The claim emerges amid rising regional tensions and follows a broader pattern of asymmetric naval strategies attributed to Tehran as pressure intensifies in the Gulf. The report suggests Iran has a history of marine mammal training programs, including dolphins reportedly acquired from former Soviet sources and conditioned for military tasks. These animals have been associated with operations such as mine detection and underwater targeting. The latest claims extend that capability into offensive roles, describing scenarios where dolphins could be used to deliver explosive payloads against naval vessels operating in contested waters. New York Post This development comes as the Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most strategically critical maritime routes in the world, handling a significant portion of global oil shipments. Military activity in the region has intensified, with ongoing concerns over naval mines and disruption to shipping lanes. U.S. forces have increased mine-clearing operations and deployed specialized vessels and underwater systems to secure transit through the chokepoint. AP News Reports of Iranian mine deployment have been mixed. Some intelligence-based accounts indicate that mines have been placed in limited numbers, while U.S. officials have at times stated there is no clear evidence confirming widespread mining activity. The uncertainty surrounding these operations has contributed to volatility in global energy markets and heightened risk perceptions among commercial shipping operators. Al-Monitor At the same time, Iran’s broader naval approach has leaned heavily on asymmetric tactics, including small attack craft, drones, and dispersed maritime capabilities designed to challenge larger conventional forces. The reported exploration of marine mammals as part of this strategy aligns with that doctrine, emphasizing unpredictability and unconventional threat vectors. International responses continue to evolve as the situation develops. The United States and its allies have expanded surveillance, minesweeping, and deterrence measures in the region. Additional naval assets, including mine countermeasure ships and autonomous systems, have been deployed to maintain navigational security and reduce the threat of underwater explosives. New York Post No official confirmation has been issued by Iranian authorities regarding the reported dolphin program in its current form. However, the emergence of such reports highlights the escalating complexity of maritime security in the region, where conventional and unconventional strategies increasingly intersect.