The Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot (Francophone centrist) has said that Belgium is prepared to contribute to the restoration of the free passage of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Any Belgian assistance would be within the framework of a ceasefire and be part of an international operation.
Foreign minister says that Belgium willing to contribute to demining Strait of Hormuz
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Representatives of some of the countries impacted by the disruption to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz held talks via a video conference on Thursday. In retaliation for the US-Israeli attacks, Iran has closed the strait almost completely, In normal times, 20% of international oil and gas shipments pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
Writing on the social media platform X, Mr Prévot said “We discussed the need to mobilise the necessary political and diplomatic levers, including economic sanctions, to reopen the Strait, and to ensure the freedom of navigation within a defensive framework, contingent on a durable ceasefire and a clear international approach”.
Belgium wishes to support “safe, lawful, and unimpeded navigation” in the Strait, “in full respect of peace, international law, and long-term regional stability”, the minister emphasised. “Belgium stands ready to contribute, including through our renowned expertise in demining.”
Many countries stressed that a military mission can only be considered once a stable ceasefire has been achieved. One option is to first clear the Strait of mines and then escort ships. Military planners are due to hold further talks next week.
The international initiative was launched in mid-March by the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Japan. The group has since grown to include more than 40 countries, including, alongside Belgium, India, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates and Nigeria.