Netherlands sends minesweeping vessel for NATO mission in Strait of Hormuz

Moscow (ANTARA) - Netherlands has deployed the minesweeping vessel HNLMS Willemstad to the Mediterranean Sea to join NATO’s Maritime Task Force, with potential deployment to the Strait of Hormuz if required.

Dutch Defence Minister Dilan Yesilgoz-Zegerius stated the vessel would operate from the Mediterranean, adding: “From there, if needed, it can be deployed to the Strait of Hormuz, a key trade route for oil and gas,” via X on Wednesday.

The Dutch government is exploring options to deploy the minesweeping vessel alongside allied nations. Last week, military leaders from approximately 40 countries held talks led by theUK and France. A joint statement following the meeting said a coalition mission to secure the Strait of Hormuz would complement diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict between the US and Iran.

On 28 February, the US and Israel carried out joint strikes on several Iranian targets, including in Tehran, causing damage and civilian casualties. Iran subsequently retaliated by attacking Israeli and US military facilities in the Middle East. Washington and Tehran announced a ceasefire on 7 April, but subsequent negotiations in Islamabad failed to produce breakthroughs.

escalating tensions around Iran have led to de facto blockades in the Strait of Hormuz, a primary route for oil and natural gas from the Persian Gulf to global markets. This has affected oil exports and production, driving up fuel and industrial product prices worldwide.