The Netherlands is deploying a minesweeper for a potential NATO operation in the Strait of Hormuz.
The Dutch government announced it is sending a minesweeper to the Mediterranean Sea for potential participation in a NATO operation in the Strait of Hormuz.
According to a joint letter from the Dutch Ministers of Defense and Foreign Affairs to the country’s parliament, this ship will set sail this week and will be operationally ready in about two weeks.
The letter states that the Netherlands is preparing to play a role in ensuring the security of ship passage in the Persian Gulf.
Dutch officials also announced that one of the options under consideration is deploying specialized teams for diving, reconnaissance, and neutralizing explosive materials.
At the same time, the Dutch government is exploring the possibility of participating in a potential international coalition in the region.
Mark Rutte, the Secretary General of NATO, has also confirmed that several member countries of the alliance have sent minesweepers and mine detection equipment near the area in preparation for a potential operation in the Strait of Hormuz.