France claims: European allies have the ability to clear mines in the Strait of Hormuz

French Defense Minister Catherine Vautrin said on Friday that European countries, including Belgium, the Netherlands and France, have the ability to conduct mine-clearing operations to protect vital shipping routes passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The statement was broadcast on French TV channel TF1.

Vautrin told TF1 that European countries have the ability to provide “fully supported escort services” or protection for ships passing through the strategically important waterway. He also said efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz would be discussed at talks in Paris on Friday.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron will host a virtual meeting of leaders from 40 countries to discuss reopening the Strait of Hormuz and protecting shipping routes. The meeting will also discuss efforts to secure a cease-fire with Iran, CNN reported.

The British Prime Minister’s Office reported that discussions would include planning for an international mission aimed at reopening the strait. This initiative would be purely defensive and would call for a joint military effort, which would be implemented as circumstances dictate.

The meeting will also discuss supporting the work of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to improve the safety of ships and their crews in the region.