The United Kingdom and France are preparing an international operation to clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz
The United Kingdom and France have finalized plans for a multinational operation to clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz, which could be joined by 15 other countries.
Bloomberg reports this, citing sources familiar with the mission’s preparations.
According to the agency, military planners from several countries are in the final stages of preparing an operation to clear the key maritime route of mines and other threats to navigation.
Bloomberg’s sources note that a coalition of 15 countries has already agreed to participate in the mission. Some countries are ready to join a few weeks after it begins to ensure the safe passage of merchant ships.
Meanwhile, preparations are still underway. Organizers are seeking additional resources, including support and technical assistance vessels, necessary to carry out the operation.
According to sources, the deployment of international forces will not begin until agreements are reached between the U.S. and Iran on restoring safe commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
It is also reported that the mission, led by the United Kingdom and France, will maintain direct contact with Tehran to promptly resolve any issues that may arise during the execution of its tasks.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical transport corridors. A significant portion of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports passes through it, so any restrictions on shipping in the region directly affect global energy markets and international trade.
Source: Bloomberg.
Earlier, Iran launched a missile strike on the Ali Al-Salem Air Base in Kuwait, where U.S. military personnel and contractors were stationed. The attack resulted in minor injuries and damaged U.S. drones. The incident occurred amid U.S. efforts to negotiate an extension of the ceasefire with Tehran.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is alive and continues to interact with his inner circle, although he does so cautiously and primarily through written messages and intermediaries. Officials in Washington note that his activity has been increasing recently.
