Berlin says Iran should foot bill for Strait of Hormuz mine clearance

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has argued that Iran should bear the financial burden of a prospective European naval operation to clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz, saying Tehran is responsible for the damage caused to international shipping.

Wadephul said Iran should pay for the mine-clearing effort because the operation would address the consequences of actions taken by the Iranian government, Der Spiegel reports.

"Iran illegally mined an international maritime route," the German foreign minister said.

While Germany is not currently seeking compensation from Tehran for the costs of a potential European-led mine clearance mission, Wadephul said he believes such a demand would be justified.

The proposal comes amid ongoing discussions among European countries over measures to safeguard maritime navigation through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's busiest shipping lanes.

It remains uncertain whether the Bundeswehr, Germany's armed forces, will participate in the operation. A decision is expected later this summer and will depend in part on the outcome of continuing peace negotiations between Iran and the United States.

Any deployment of German forces would also require the approval of the Bundestag, Germany's federal parliament.

By Vafa Guliyeva