Following a meeting of the Foreign Policy Committee, the government has secured broad parliamentary support for Denmark to contribute to the so-called Multinational Military Mission for the Strait of Hormuz (MMMSoH), led by the United Kingdom and France.

“I am very pleased and grateful that the Danish government and a broad majority in the Danish Parliament once again want Denmark to be part of an international coalition tasked with protecting civilian shipping and keeping vital supply chains open. As one of the world’s largest maritime nations, Denmark has both a clear interest in and a responsibility to contribute to security on key international shipping routes. It is good and right that Denmark is taking on this responsibility,” says Anne H. Steffensen, CEO of Danish Shipping.

According to Minister of Defence Jeppe Bruus, the Danish contribution will fall within the categories of an interpreting element, drone capacity, staff officers and a cyber element.

In addition, Danish Shipping believes the mandate should also include the Red Sea, where sailing has long been unsafe due to Houthi attacks on civilian shipping in the area.

“It would be wise and forward-looking for the Red Sea to be included in the mandate as well. It is a crucial route for international shipping, which has long been challenged by security threats, forcing many ships to sail around Africa, resulting in significant delays and increased fuel consumption. Although there is currently no proposal for a separate effort in the Red Sea, it is important to maintain focus on the threats to shipping in the area,” says Anne H. Steffensen.

The next step will be for the government to present a parliamentary resolution on Danish participation in MMMSoH, which will be fast-tracked in the Danish Parliament.