Germany deploys ships to Red Sea for possible Hormuz mission, minister says

Germany deploys ships to the Red Sea for a possible Hormuz mission as tensions and security concerns around mine threats persist in key waterways. On June 18, Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said two German vessels—minesweeper Fulda and supply ship Mosel—were sailing through the Suez Canal toward the Red Sea ahead of a potential role near the Strait of Hormuz. Pistorius provided no timetable and said any minesweeping participation would require approvals from Iran and Oman and would depend on Iran-U.S. talks. Clearing mines could delay a return to normal shipping by weeks, and Germany is also sending underwater drones, mine divers, and vessel protection teams. France and Britain have pushed multinational naval plans, while Iran has signaled opposition and could seek transit fees. Lloyd’s and BIMCO warned that credible reassurances and mine-free routes are needed for a full traffic recovery.