Germany signals readiness to join efforts to secure Strait of Hormuz

Germany has said it is prepared to participate in international efforts aimed at securing the Strait of Hormuz, underscoring growing concern among Western allies over maritime security in one of the world’s most critical shipping routes.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said Berlin is ready to contribute to ensuring free passage for commercial shipping through the strategic waterway, which is vital for global energy supplies and trade flows, Caliber.Az reports. 

In Helsingborg geht es auch um die Situation im Nahen Osten. Unsere Anstrengungen gelten der freien Durchfahrt aller Schiffe und damit der weltweiten Versorgungssicherheit. Wir sind bereit, uns an internationalen Bemühungen zur Sicherung der Straße von Hormus zu beteiligen. 4/4

— Johann Wadephul (@AussenMinDE) May 21, 2026

"In Helsingborg, it's also about the situation in the Middle East. Our efforts are aimed at ensuring free passage for all ships and thus global supply security. We are prepared to participate in international efforts to secure the Strait of Hormuz," Wadephul wrote on X.

In further remarks, the German foreign minister said discussions held in The Hague last year helped lay the foundation for what he described as a “strong NATO 3.0,” calling for a greater European role in defence, enhanced deterrence, and closer cooperation between defence industries.

The minister added that Germany is embracing greater leadership responsibility within NATO and supports a new burden-sharing arrangement that reflects Europe’s economic and military potential.

“Our goal is a new burden-sharing arrangement in the NATO alliance that aligns with Germany’s and Europe’s economic and military potential,” he said.

Wadephul also highlighted Ukraine’s role in European security, describing it as the most significant contributor to European security outside NATO. He said Germany aims to develop proposals in Sweden on how to further support Ukraine and incorporate lessons from Ukraine’s defence industry into allied capabilities.

By Sabina Mammadli