Europe Ready to Clear Mines in Hormuz with Iran and Oman's Consent

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated on Wednesday that European countries require the consent of Iran and Oman to launch a mine-clearing operation in the Strait of Hormuz. “Germany, together with several other countries, under the leadership of the UK and France, is in principle ready to engage in a mine-clearing operation because it clearly poses a threat to all ships wishing to transit the strait,” he told Al Jazeera. However, Wadephul cautioned that for the operation to commence, the situation must be conducive. This requires an agreement with Oman and Iran so that they approve the European unit carrying out the task. Wadephul also expressed concern over the rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. He urged the United States and Iran to halt hostilities and return to the negotiating table. In the early hours of Wednesday, the United States military launched a series of strikes against Iran. The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) stated the operation was conducted in response to Iranian attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. US President Donald Trump subsequently declared that the ceasefire with Iran was no longer in effect. Iran accused Washington of violating the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding and launched retaliatory strikes against American military bases in Bahrain and Kuwait.