Estonia is prepared to discuss contributing to a potential US-led mission to secure the Strait of Hormuz, according to statements from Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna and Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur. While no official request has been made from the United States, Estonian officials are open to discussions if the issue is formally raised either bilaterally or within NATO. Tsahkna emphasized that Estonia has always been a reliable partner to the US.
Estonia acknowledges its limited military capabilities but has noted that its three mine countermeasure vessels could be a tangible contribution. Other potential roles, such as demining specialists or ship protection teams, are also being considered. The country's foreign minister highlighted that securing the Strait is complex due to its narrowness (30-40 kilometers wide in parts), with much of the navigable area being within Iranian artillery range, potentially requiring control of the shoreline.
Despite Estonia's willingness, other NATO allies like Germany and the United Kingdom have reportedly ruled out sending troops. Tsahkna also mentioned disunity among EU foreign ministers regarding expanding a Red Sea mission to include the Strait. Estonia's position is to support the US and Israel politically in weakening the Iranian regime, but its role would not be to pressure other member states into military intervention.
The global oil prices have surged, with Sunday evening prices hitting $106 a barrel, an approximate 45 percent increase since the conflict began, following Iran's effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz to tankers. This crucial waterway accounts for roughly one-fifth of the world's oil supplies. The US President has called for international assistance, particularly from NATO allies, to secure the shipping channel, which Iran has threatened to target and where sea mines also pose a risk.
Estonian officials stressed the need for clear plans and strategic objectives from the United States before committing to any military assistance, noting a lack of awareness regarding these objectives even at the war's outset. While a full NATO mission is complicated due to requiring unanimous consent, discussions within NATO's existing framework are seen as reasonable.
