Belgian FM Signals Readiness to Send Minehunters to Strait of Hormuz

(MENAFN) Belgium has expressed willingness to contribute minehunters to secure the Strait of Hormuz once the situation in the region stabilizes, as stated by reports.

Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot told local radio that the country is open to participating in an international coalition to help safeguard the strategic waterway, noting that deployment would take place when conditions allow.

He mentioned that French President Emmanuel Macron recently discussed the matter with Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever and said Belgium could participate in a 32-country coalition with a “proportionate share.”

Prevot emphasized that joining such a mission should not be interpreted as support for the U.S.-Israeli intervention in Iran, which he described as having started “outside international law.”

He added that the situation must be carefully “managed” due to its economic impact on Europe, cautioning that “one should not declare victory too soon” regarding Washington’s claims of achieving regime change in Iran.

Belgium’s Defense Minister Theo Francken also confirmed on social media that “Belgium will join the coalition of the willing to guarantee the free maritime passage through the Strait of Hormuz.” He explained that Belgium is coordinating with France and other partners and will act “once conditions in the region will allow for it, such as a ceasefire.”

Francken highlighted the strategic importance of the strait, saying, “Freedom of navigation is essential for our security and economic stability.”

The Strait of Hormuz has been a focal point of concern since March 2, when Iran announced restrictions on navigation and warned that any vessels attempting passage without coordination could be targeted. With roughly 20 million barrels of oil transiting the strait daily, these restrictions have driven up global oil prices, shipping costs, and insurance rates, raising economic concerns worldwide.

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