European Union Proposes Key Role in Strait of Hormuz Mine Clearance

A document revealed the European Union's diplomatic service proposed its naval mission "ASPIDES" take a pivotal role in mine clearance in the Strait of Hormuz when conditions allow, as a European contribution to a French-British led initiative. A May 26 memo from the European External Action Service stated "the situation calls for the Union to make an effective contribution" to a temporary French-British alliance, to be activated when circumstances permit and kept separate from warring parties. The European ASPIDES mission was established in 2024 to protect ships from Houthi militia attacks in the Red Sea. It is led by an Italian and a Greek vessel, with potential support from a French and an additional Italian vessel. Last March, diplomats and officials indicated that EU foreign ministers discussed strengthening a small naval mission in the Middle East, though its role was not expanded to include the Strait of Hormuz then.