As a result of the attacks by the US and Israel, Iran has blocked the Strait of Hormuz. According to Dr. Moritz Brake's assessment, this is having a severe impact on international maritime trade. The current armed conflicts in the Gulf region have already led to shipping companies avoiding the passage altogether.
Reports of the use of sea mines are currently difficult to verify. However, if mines have indeed been laid there, their clearance would require special technical expertise. The German Armed Forces could provide this, but only to a limited extent. Against this background, Dr. Brake emphasized how crucial it is to consistently expand the capabilities of the German Navy.
For Germany, the Strait of Hormuz is primarily important for general freight transport. Although only a small proportion of energy imports are sourced via this route, the global shortage of oil and gas on the world market could nevertheless have a noticeable impact on Germany.