Germany to join UK-proposed coalition in Gulf : Reports

By Ayhan Simsek

BERLIN (AA) - Germany is planning to join a UK-proposed international coalition to protect commercial ships sailing through the Strait of Hormuz, local media reported on Thursday.

Foreign Minister Heiko Maas has informed the parliament’s foreign affairs committee about Berlin’s plans, and the government would bring a motion to the parliament seeking authorization for the possible deployment, the RND media group has reported.

The U.K. on Monday called for a European-led maritime mission to ensure safe passage around the Persian Gulf, following Iran’s seizure of a British-flagged tanker last week.

The U.S. also announced plans earlier for an international military coalition to provide safe passage for shipping around the Persian Gulf and Yemen.

Tensions with Iran escalated last month after two oil tankers were attacked at the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. held Iran responsible for the attacks, an accusation denied by Tehran.

Days later, Iran shot down a U.S. drone, claiming it had violated Iran's airspace. The U.S. said the drone had been over international waters.