Lithuania considers sending officers and demining forces to Hormuz Strait operations

Lithuania may deploy staff officers and demining units to international operations in the Hormuz Strait as part of efforts to restore suspended shipping, the country’s military and Ministry of National Defence told public broadcaster LRT on Monday.

The State Defence Council announced Lithuania’s potential participation in multinational operations in the strait, with parliamentary approval still required. Up to 40 personnel—both military and civilian defence system specialists—could be dispatched.

“Final coordination of the support package with allies is ongoing, but Lithuania’s contribution could range from assigning staff officers to international operation structures to deploying Lithuanian Naval Force demining capabilities in maritime security missions,” the defence institutions stated.

The government will submit the proposal for parliamentary debate, where a final decision is expected. Seimas Speaker Juozas Olekas suggested the measure could strengthen ties with the US, calling it “important to remain united with the international community and our allies,” as it directly impacts fuel costs and broader cooperation.

Opposition leader Remigijus Žemaitaitis of the Nemuno Aušra party opposed participation, arguing Lithuania’s support for the US conflicts with its cooperation with Germany. “I see no grounds to send troops now,” he said, demanding clearer US confirmation on where Lithuanian forces would integrate.

Laurynas Kasčiūnas, chair of the conservative Homeland Union, framed the move as symbolic but meaningful: “We all want Hormuz shipping to resume—it’s vital for the global economy.” He added that Europe’s inability to ensure its own defence makes US-backed initiatives necessary.

The presidency confirmed plans to deploy up to 40 troops and civilians, urging swift parliamentary approval to amend Lithuania’s mandate for international operations. The government is also prepared to provide logistical support and access to military infrastructure, per US requests.

President Gitanas Nausėda revealed in late April that Lithuania had received a US invitation to join a coalition aiming to reopen the strait. The conflict in Iran began on February 28 with US-Israeli airstrikes; Iran’s subsequent blockade of the critical waterway disrupted global oil markets and triggered financial instability. The US is assembling an international coalition to restore navigation, with the UK and France already deploying vessels despite Iranian warnings.