French Defence Minister said on Friday that European countries, such as Belgium, the Netherlands and France, have mine clearance capacity which could help secure passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
“There are capabilities to provide fully supported escort services – that is to say, in no way offensive, of course – for ships to ensure safe passage through the strait; that is what will be debated today in Paris,” Catherine Vautrin told French TV station TF1
France and the UK are set to hold an international summit, with French President Emmanuel Macron’s office indicating that about 30 countries will attend Friday’s talks, including some from the Middle East and Asia.