Paris ready to launch mine-clearing operations in Hormuz

France is prepared to deploy minesweepers to the Strait of Hormuz should mine-clearing operations become necessary in the strategically important waterway, French Armed Forces Minister Catherine Vautrin said.

Speaking in an interview with TF1 television, Vautrin stated that two French minesweepers, Lyre and Andromède, are already positioned in the region and could be mobilized at short notice. 

“We have two minesweepers in the area — Lyre and Andromède — that are potentially ready to support mine-clearing operations,” she said.

While the minister did not disclose the vessels’ exact location, she emphasized that they are currently stationed close to the Strait of Hormuz.

“This means they have the ability to intervene very quickly,” Vautrin noted.

The minister stressed the importance of maintaining a rapid-response capability amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding the security of the waterway, one of the world’s most critical maritime trade routes.

According to Vautrin, questions remain over whether the strait has been mined, making preparedness essential.

“Uncertainty still remains as to whether the strait has been mined or not,” she said.

By Vafa Guliyeva