Latvia's government backs sending troops to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz

Latvia's government on Tuesday approved a draft decision allowing the National Armed Forces (NAF) to join multinational military operations aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz and restoring freedom of navigation there. The final decision on Latvia's participation still needs approval from the Saeima, Latvia's parliament.

Under the draft decision, Latvia would take part both in the US-led coalition operation and in a separate multinational operation led by Britain and France. Participation is planned to run until 1 September 2028.

Up to 20 troops and mine-clearance equipment

Latvia could send no more than 20 troops. The main contribution would be a Naval Forces underwater explosive ordnance disposal unit equipped with autonomous mine-clearance systems, operating as part of a larger international diving team. Latvia also plans to send NAF staff officers and instructors to operational and tactical headquarters, both in the territories of the leading coalition states and in the operations area itself.

A limited role

The Latvian contingent would take part only in mine countermeasures, coordination of mine-clearance efforts in the strait, and broader activities aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz to ensure unhindered transit passage. Latvia will not, however, take part in actions that would support the United States as a warring party in its conflict with Iran.

Based on assessments from the leading coalition states, full mine-clearance of the Strait of Hormuz as part of the wider freedom-of-navigation operation could take between 12 and 16 months. Latvia's Defence Ministry and the NAF are currently working with the US Central Command, along with Britain and France, to clarify the practical and logistical details needed to deploy the contingent. If the Saeima approves the decision, the ministry will negotiate the support arrangements needed for the deployment.

Background to the crisis

The Defence Ministry notes that shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has faced persistent disruptions since 28 February 2026, following joint US and Israeli military strikes on Iran. In response, both the US and the Britain-France-led coalitions decided to launch operations aimed at restoring freedom of navigation, ensuring continuity of commercial shipping, deterring further attacks, and rebuilding confidence in the safety of passage through the strait. The operations have not yet begun active operational activity, but are planned to continue until a safe shipping environment is secured in the strait.