The Netherlands is prepared to contribute militarily to restoring free passage in the Strait of Hormuz. Their efforts, however, will be once hostilities have ceased. Minister of Foreign Affairs Tom Berendsen (political party: CDA) announced this on Thursday during a video meeting of forty countries.
“Safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz is of such great importance that we, as the Netherlands, are not going to stand on the sidelines and watch others solve this”, Berendsen said after the ninety‑minute meeting. “We are prepared to play a role, but only within clear frameworks”. He mentioned mine clearance as a possible contribution, while stressing that concrete steps are not yet imminent.
According to Berendsen, the coalition of countries, led by the United Kingdom, first discussed ways to increase pressure on Iran. This includes exploring additional economic and diplomatic measures. “This is a signal to Iran to stop escalation, to stop firing indiscriminately in the region”, the minister added.
@anp | NEWSBRAINPORT
