Story perspectives

Germany Deploys 140 Troops to Clear Hormuz Mines

6/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Germany will send 140 troops to clear mines in the Strait of Hormuz after a U.S.–Iran cease-fire.
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said the minesweeper Fulda and supply ship Mosel have crossed Suez Canal toward Djibouti.
Pistorius added the operation, under EU Aspides, needs Bundestag approval, an international mandate and consent from Iran and Oman.
Experts warn that locating and neutralising mines may take weeks or months because of uncertain placement.

History

Historical Context

In 1991 a 42-country coalition, led by the United States, cleared naval mines from the Persian Gulf after Operation Desert Storm, restoring shipping lanes. That multinational mine-countermeasure effort set a precedent for today’s EU Aspides mission, where German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius has sent 140 troops aboard the minesweeper Fulda and the ship Mosel to sweep Hormuz, pending regional consent.

1 of 2

Story summary

Germany will send 140 troops to clear mines in the Strait of Hormuz after a U.S.–Iran cease-fire.
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said the minesweeper Fulda and supply ship Mosel have crossed Suez Canal toward Djibouti.
Pistorius added the operation, under EU Aspides, needs Bundestag approval, an international mandate and consent from Iran and Oman.
Experts warn that locating and neutralising mines may take weeks or months because of uncertain placement.

1 / 2