Latvia considers deploying up to 20 troops for Strait of Hormuz mission

Latvia could deploy up to 20 military personnel to take part in multinational operations aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, according to a draft decision prepared by the country's Ministry of Defence for parliamentary approval.

As part of its contribution, Latvia plans to deploy a naval explosive ordnance disposal unit equipped with autonomous mine-clearing systems. The unit would operate as part of a larger multinational diving team conducting mine clearance operations, Caliber.Az reports via Latvian media.

Latvia also intends to send staff officers and instructors from the National Armed Forces to the mission headquarters, which will be based both in the countries leading the operation and in the operational area.

The Latvian contingent will be involved exclusively in mine clearance operations and coordination efforts in the Strait of Hormuz, as well as broader initiatives to reopen the waterway and ensure the unhindered right of transit passage through the strait.

At the same time, Latvia will not participate in any activities that would support the United States as a belligerent party in the conflict with Iran.

According to an assessment provided by the countries leading the mission, the complete clearance of mines in the Strait of Hormuz is expected to take between 12 and 16 months.

By Jeyhun Aghazada