Translated with AI
British military divers are preparing for a possible mine-clearing operation in the Strait of Hormuz, should the decision be made, Politico reports, citing the UK Ministry of Defence.
According to the department, Royal Navy specialists trained in explosive ordnance disposal and mine clearance are ready to conduct operations in this strategically important region.
The UK government also confirmed its intention to provide autonomous mine-hunting systems as part of a proposed multinational mission to ensure the security of the Strait.
As Politico notes, with these actions, London is seeking to demonstrate to US President Donald Trump its readiness to make a significant contribution to protecting the key maritime route through the Persian Gulf.
Earlier last month, the UK said it was considering sending a Royal Navy ship or a commercial vessel equipped with autonomous mine detection systems to the Persian Gulf.
Meanwhile, The Washington Post, citing three US officials, reported that a Pentagon official briefed the US Congress on the possible timeframe for such an operation. He estimated that completely clearing the Strait of Hormuz of mines laid by the Iranian military could take up to six months.
The publication emphasized that such an operation would only be possible after the conclusion of the war between the US and Iran. It also noted that this assessment points to the likelihood of prolonged economic consequences from the conflict, which could be felt until the end of this year and beyond.
