As contradictory statements continue regarding whether there has been concrete progress in the negotiations between Iran and the United States, it is assessed that the primary goal of both parties is to extend the ceasefire and subsequently reopen the Strait of Hormuz to maritime traffic.

According to diplomatic sources, Washington and Tehran need to de-escalate tensions for different reasons. The U.S. administration is mindful of domestic political balances, while Iran aims to alleviate the heavy financial burden caused by sanctions and economic pressure. However, it remains uncertain how a potential agreement would be received by Israel and Gulf countries, which are not directly involved in the process.

Concerns Over Mines in the Strait of Hormuz

In the event of an extension of the ceasefire, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for full capacity use could be on the agenda. However, maritime circles emphasize that the possible mines in the region pose serious risks to international trade.

The Oman Sea Security Center announced in a warning published on May 29 that an object floating in the northern channel of the Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) in the strait was detected, which is believed to potentially be a sea mine. Subsequently, high-resolution satellite images obtained from the region suggested that approximately 20 suspicious mine-like objects were observed.

Experts indicate that ship owners and insurance companies are unlikely to be receptive to the resumption of normal traffic in the region without assurances that the navigation corridors have been completely cleared.

Multinational Mine Clearance Force Being Established

To eliminate the mine threat, a multinational naval force is being formed with the participation of over 40 countries, led by the United Kingdom and France.

The flagship of the task force is expected to be the French aircraft carrier FS Charles de Gaulle (R91), currently located in the Arabian Sea. It is reported that various warships, including the British Royal Navy's air defense destroyer HMS Dragon (D35), will accompany the vessel.

The British landing ship RFA Lyme Bay (L3007) will serve as the main platform for the deployment of autonomous mine clearance systems. The ship is conducting preparatory activities in the Mediterranean to load British and French mine clearance equipment for this purpose.

European Countries Also Participating

Italy's mine-hunting vessels ITS Crotone (M5558) and ITS Rimini (M5561), supported by the patrol vessel ITS Montecuccoli (P455), have set sail towards the region.

The Dutch Navy's HNLMS Willemstad (M864) is also en route to join the mission, while German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced that the mine-hunting vessel FGS Fulda (M1058) and support elements are ready for deployment to the Gulf.

Duqm Port Could Become a Logistics Center

In the upcoming period, it is expected that Asian countries will also join the task force. According to experts, a significant portion of the vessels operating within the scope of the operation will use the facilities at Duqm Port in Oman as a logistics and supply center.

The maritime sector is now focused on the outcome of diplomatic contacts and when navigation safety in the Strait of Hormuz can be fully restored.

Source: SeaNews Türkiye