Germany sends warships amid oil chokepoint crisis in Hormuz
Photo: German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (Getty Images)
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, in an interview for the newspaper Rheinische Post, said that Germany is sending warships to the Mediterranean Sea, preparing for a possible deployment to the Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions in the region.
According to him, the participation of the German navy in the operation is only possible if hostilities in the region cease and a mandate is obtained from the Bundestag.
"Precondition for the deployment of the German navy in the Strait of Hormuz is, first of all, the cessation of hostilities. After all, we are one of the largest armed forces in Europe and must therefore take responsibility. At the same time, we are aware that we cannot overstretch our capabilities," Pistorius said.
The minister explained that Germany has significant experience in detecting and clearing mines, and these capabilities could be used to ensure safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
To speed up a potential deployment, part of the units will be moved closer to the region in advance. In particular, a minesweeper along with a command and support vessel will be sent to the Mediterranean Sea.
"We will deploy a minesweeper to the Mediterranean and provide it with a command and support vessel," Pistorius stated.
He also added that to carry out tasks in the Strait of Hormuz area, Germany may temporarily reduce its presence in other regions in coordination with partners.
Situation in the Strait of Hormuz
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz has sharply escalated amid the confrontation between the United States and Iran, increasing risks to global oil supplies.
As early as April 13, the United States announced the start of a naval blockade after Iran restricted ship movement in response to strikes by the US and Israel.
US President Donald Trump said that violators of the blockade could be destroyed, and also reported significant losses of the Iranian fleet.
According to Axios, this week, Iran deployed new naval mines in the Strait using small boats. In response, the United States is using underwater drones for demining, while traffic through the strait — which in peacetime accounted for about 20% of global oil flows — has dropped to a minimum.
