Pete Hegseth Asked About Bizarre Report of ‘Kamikaze Dolphins’ in Strait of Hormuz: ‘Like Sharks With Laser Beams?’ – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Pexels)
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, fielded a quirky question Tuesday about reports claiming Iran might deploy “kamikaze dolphins” in the Strait of Hormuz. The exchange drew laughter during a Pentagon press briefing, as officials downplayed the notion amid ongoing tensions in the vital waterway. Their responses highlighted both skepticism and a focus on maintaining safe commercial shipping lanes.
The Unusual Report Sparks Questions
A recent Wall Street Journal article brought the peculiar claim to light last week. Iranian officials reportedly warned of unleashing unconventional weapons against US warships, including mine-carrying dolphins. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps also threatened to sever phone cables in the strait, potentially crippling global internet traffic.
During the briefing, Daily Wire correspondent Mary Margaret Olohan pressed Hegseth directly on the “kamikaze dolphins” reference. The query cut through the serious discussion on regional security, prompting an immediate lighthearted reaction from the top brass.
Laughter Echoes in the Briefing Room
Gen. Caine, caught off guard, responded with amusement: “Like sharks with laser beams, right?” His quip evoked the absurd imagery from popular culture, underscoring the outlandishness of the report.
Hegseth followed up with a measured yet playful denial. “And I can’t confirm or deny whether we have kamikaze dolphins, but I can confirm they don’t,” he stated. He quickly pivoted to practical matters, emphasizing that US forces stood ready to address any mines detected in the area.
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Iran’s Broader Strategy in the Strait
Iran has curtailed passage through the Strait of Hormuz since the war’s outset, aiming to pressure the global economy. The chokepoint handles a significant share of the world’s oil shipments, and restrictions have driven up energy prices worldwide.
Americans have felt the impact directly at gas pumps, as costs climbed amid the disruptions. Tehran has also sown mines in the waters, a hazard experts say could require up to six months to clear fully. These measures have deterred commercial vessels and heightened risks for navigation.
Assurances of Safe Passage Ahead
Despite the threats, Hegseth stressed that a clear lane for commercial shipping currently remained open. He noted that specialized units could handle mine removal if needed, or international partners might assist in the effort.
The comments reflected confidence in US capabilities to counter Iranian tactics. Officials avoided escalating rhetoric, focusing instead on operational readiness.
- Iran’s reported dolphin deployment stems from threats against US warships.
- Mines and cable-cutting plans add to strait disruptions.
- Pentagon confirms no such Iranian assets exist.
- Safe shipping corridor persists for now.
The light moment at the briefing served as a reminder of the mix of high stakes and occasional absurdity in military briefings. As tensions simmer in the Strait of Hormuz, the US commitment to secure passage underscores the priority on economic stability amid conflict.
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