Lithuania moves to deploy troops to Strait of Hormuz under fast-track procedure

The Lithuanian parliament will debate under an expedited procedure a proposal to send up to 40 military and civilian personnel to international maritime security operations in the Strait of Hormuz, following an initial vote on Tuesday, LRT reports.

Lawmakers approved the draft law in its first reading with 78 votes in favour, seven against, and three abstentions. The legislation would establish the legal basis for Lithuania’s participation in multinational efforts to ensure freedom of navigation and regional security in the critical waterway.

Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas told parliament the deployment would contribute to international operations “without being linked to the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran.” Lithuanian forces could provide mine clearance, force protection, intelligence, and other defensive capabilities, operating not only in the strait itself but also in adjacent waters of the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.

The minister added that Lithuania may join either US-led missions or separate peacekeeping operations led by the UK and France, depending on evolving needs. The State Defence Council endorsed Lithuania’s involvement in May, while the presidency confirmed readiness to provide logistical support and access to military infrastructure in response to US requests.

President Gitanas Nausėda first revealed in late April that Lithuania had received a US invitation to join the coalition aiming to restore shipping in the strait. At the time, he stressed that Lithuanian troops would only deploy if a peace agreement between the US and Iran were reached.

The conflict in the region escalated after US-Israeli airstrikes on Iran on February 28 prompted Tehran to effectively block the strait—a route carrying roughly one-fifth of global oil and gas shipments—triggering a surge in energy prices. Although initial US-Iran talks briefly reopened the waterway, navigation remains disrupted as both sides maintain blockades.

US President Donald Trump has repeatedly criticised European nations for insufficient support in the confrontation with Iran.