Netherlands deploys minesweeper amid Hormuz contingency planning

AI Summary

The Netherlands is deploying a minesweeper to the Mediterranean as part of NATO operations to prepare for rapid response near the Strait of Hormuz. The deployment supports a potential mission contingent on the resolution of the ongoing Iran conflict.

AMSTERDAM, May 27 (Reuters) - The Netherlands will send a minesweeper to the Mediterranean Sea as part of NATO operations to allow a possible rapid deployment to the Strait of Hormuz, should a mission there be agreed once the Iran war ends, ministers said on Wednesday in a letter to parliament. • The minesweeper, departing this week, will be able to contribute to the NATO standing mine countermeasures group from mid-June, the letter from defence minister Dilan Yesligoz and foreign minister Tom Berendsen said.