France Proposes European Mine Clearance Support in Strait of Hormuz
France has proposed that European countries, including Belgium and the Netherlands, contribute their mine clearance capabilities to secure the Strait of Hormuz. French Defence Minister Catherine Vautrin emphasized the importance of ensuring safe passage through the strait, which is a critical route for global oil and liquefied natural gas flows. France and Britain are leading a meeting with around 40 countries to discuss this initiative, aiming to demonstrate to the United States that European allies are committed to maintaining freedom of navigation in the region.