Germany calls on Iran to bear part of the costs of mine clearance operations in the Strait of Hormuz

Berlin, July 6 (KUNA) -- German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul called on Monday to make Iran bear part of the costs of potential European operations to clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz, noting that Tehran is responsible for laying mines in one of the most important international maritime corridors. In a press statement, Wadephul said that Germany would not initially demand fees for the participation of European forces in mine clearance, adding that “Iran is responsible for removing the damage it caused by mining a vital international waterway, and it is Iran that should bear these costs.” He pointed out that carrying out the mission remains contingent on several factors, the most important of which are reaching an agreement guaranteeing a permanent cessation of hostilities, obtaining the consent of the states bordering the strait, notably Iran and the Sultanate of Oman, and completing the necessary legal foundations, including approval by the German parliament (Bundestag). This comes after several European countries, most notably France and Britain, began preparing for a potential mine-clearance mission in the strait. A few weeks ago, the German Ministry of Defense announced the deployment of the minehunter Fulda and the supply ship Mosel to the region to stand ready to participate in the operation. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most important arteries of global trade, through which about one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas trade passes. (End) A.N.J. / H.A.