Tensions between the United States and Iran have intensified further, with fresh developments emerging from the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz. The situation escalated after U.S. President Donald Trump indicated that American warships could be deployed into the region to escort commercial vessels stranded in the waterway.
Iran reacted sharply to the remarks, warning of potential countermeasures. In a surprising development, Iranian officials claimed they are exploring the use of so-called “kamikaze dolphins” capable of carrying underwater mines to target enemy naval vessels. The statement has triggered widespread concern and curiosity across global strategic and defence circles.
Responding to the claims, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said he could not confirm whether the United States possesses such capabilities but asserted that Iran does not have such systems. At the same time, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine, dismissed the reports as unfounded, downplaying the likelihood of such unconventional warfare tactics being operational.
The renewed focus on dolphins in military operations stems from their unique biological ability to detect underwater objects using echolocation, a natural sonar-like mechanism. This enables them to identify submerged threats such as mines, enemy divers, or hidden devices with high accuracy, making them valuable for naval surveillance and defence roles.
Historically, several nations have explored the use of marine animals for military purposes. Reports have indicated that Russia deployed trained dolphins to safeguard its naval facilities, particularly at the Sevastopol base in Crimea, amid concerns over underwater sabotage and attacks on warships stationed in the region.
During the Cold War era, both the United States and the Soviet Union are believed to have run extensive programs to train dolphins and other marine animals. Since 1959, the U.S. military has reportedly invested significant resources into such research, focusing primarily on dolphins and California sea lions for tasks including mine detection and underwater reconnaissance.
There have also been past claims suggesting that Iran may have acquired trained dolphins from the Soviet Union with capabilities to detect enemy submarines. With the Strait of Hormuz once again witnessing heightened tensions—given its importance as a key global oil and trade route—the re-emergence of discussions around “kamikaze dolphins” has added an unusual yet serious dimension to the evolving geopolitical scenario.