Belgium to join Strait of Hormuz mission only after ceasefire, international mandate

Belgium signaled Friday it is ready to participate in securing the Strait of Hormuz, but only after a lasting ceasefire is in place and the operation is conducted within a clear international framework, according to a report from the Belga news agency. The report said the federal government’s core Cabinet reached the conclusion following a request for Belgium to “contribute to appropriate measures to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.” The appeal comes as Iran threatened to attacks on ships transiting the strategically vital waterway, leading to a near halt in maritime traffic. Germany, France, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands and the UK earlier announced release they were prepared to contribute to the mission. “Belgium is prepared to participate […]