German Navy Prepares for Hormuz Mission

German Chancellor Friedrich Merze welcomed the signing of the US-Iran Agreement, as well as the ceasefire and ensuring safe passage through the Hormuz Strait. He also stated that the German government would explain how it could help in this effort, for example by offering ships to clear marine mines or military support for the measures agreed upon. Merz said that before such a German military mission can be launched, it needs a mandate or any other legal base from Bundestag, adding that the issue will be widely discussed and patiently discussed.

Luxembourg's prime minister, Luc Frieden, also welcomed “any agreement leading to peace”. However, he added, there are still parts to be completed. Frieden stressed that Hormuz Strait is important to the world and requires peace and stability, which, according to him, Luxembourg is willing to help secure.

German Navy Prepares for Hormuz Mission

The German Navy has already deployed at the Red Sea two ships for a possible mission at the Hormuz Strait. According to the Defence Ministry, the ship for mine clearing „Fulda” and supply ship „Mossel” crossed the Suez Canal and took the course to the Port of Gibuti, where they are expected to be deployed for a possible mission.

Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said, within the framework of a NATO defence ministers meeting in Brussels, that Germany wants to react quickly if need arises. Ships will be part of a possible navigational freedom mission and will be backed by demining systems, divers, and defence forces.

Absent mandate is not needed for distribution

According to Pistorius, it is still unclear whether there will really be a mission for the removal of Hormuz Strait. Many things depend on the further performance of talks between the US and Iran. According to the minister for shipping, no mandate is needed from Bundestag. The move is made within the German contribution to the EU naval mission “Aspides”. There are about 140 soldiers aboard the two ships. / REL/