Lithuania to join maritime security operations in the Strait of Hormuz

The Lithuanian State Defence Council has approved the country’s participation in international maritime security operations in the Strait of Hormuz, state broadcaster LRT reports.

Following a review of proposals from the Ministry of National Defence, the council backed Lithuania’s involvement in efforts to ensure freedom of navigation in the strategic waterway. The deployment will include up to 40 military and civilian personnel from Lithuania’s defence system, working alongside allied forces.

The council also urged the government to promptly initiate amendments to the Seimas mandate on international operations to formalise the decision. Lithuania has additionally agreed to provide logistical support and allow the use of its military infrastructure in response to US requests.

President Gitanas Nausėda first announced in late April that Lithuania had received a US invitation to join a coalition aimed at restoring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. The waterway, a critical route for global oil and gas shipments, has faced repeated disruptions amid escalating tensions between Iran and Western powers.

Conflict in the region flared in late February after US and Israeli airstrikes, prompting Iran to effectively block the strait. Though initial negotiations between Washington and Tehran temporarily reopened the route, navigation remains contested, with both sides imposing restrictions. US President Donald Trump has criticised European nations for insufficient contributions to countering Iran’s actions in the region.