Seimas approves first step to deploy Lithuanian forces to Strait of Hormuz

The Lithuanian Parliament (Seimas) has approved in the first reading a proposal to deploy up to 40 military personnel and specialists to participate in international security missions in the Strait of Hormuz region, including mine-clearing operations.

According to Report, citing Lithuanian media, 78 lawmakers voted in favor of the initiative, seven voted against it, and three abstained.

The proposal envisages expanding the mandate approved at the end of last year, allowing Lithuania to take a more active role in international operations in the strategically important region. The initiative had previously received the approval of the country's State Defense Council.

Lithuanian Defense Minister Robertas Kaunas stated that Lithuanian troops could join both the multinational mission led by the United Kingdom and France to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, as well as a separate US-led operation aimed at strengthening maritime security and regional cooperation.

According to the minister, the Lithuanian contingent will carry out exclusively defensive tasks, including mine clearance, reconnaissance, and facility protection. Participation in offensive operations is not envisaged.

He also noted that Lithuanian specialists could be deployed not only to the Strait of Hormuz, but also to the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.