Germany is preparing to deploy a minehunter to the Mediterranean Sea in anticipation of a possible mission in the Strait of Hormuz, Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said.

In an interview, Pistorius noted that any German naval involvement in the strait would depend on the end of the conflict between the United States and Iran.

He highlighted the German navy’s strong capabilities in mine detection and clearance, positioning it to support maritime security efforts.

Pistorius added that any deployment would require parliamentary approval, while the early positioning of forces aims to save time if a mission is authorized.

He also said expanding the EU’s “Aspides” mission to include the Strait of Hormuz could be a viable option.