News item | 07-12-2023 | 15:37
From today, Belgium and the Netherlands will command the European Maritime Awareness in the Strait of Hormuz (EMASoH) for six months. This European maritime mission started in 2020 due to rising tensions in the Gulf region. EMASoH focuses on reducing those tensions. By building a picture of what is happening in the region, the mission also contributes to safe passage for civilian ships.
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Belgium will provide the commander until June 6, while the Netherlands is responsible for his deputy. They take over the tasks from Italy. Until today, this country commanded the European mission. The transfer took place at the French naval base in Abu Dhabi.
The change of command also affects the size of the Dutch delegation. This increases from 2 to 7 soldiers. In addition to the deputy commander, this includes staff officers. The Belgian delegation consists of 8 people.
9 European countries
9 European countries are involved in EMASoH. Of these, 2 are only part of the diplomatic branch of the mission. Those are Germany and Portugal. In addition to Belgium, the Netherlands and Italy, Denmark, France, Greece and Norway are involved in both the diplomatic and military branches, Operation Agenor.
EMASoH can rely on the French frigate FNS Languedoc to carry out the tasks. A French military patrol aircraft can also be deployed. In recent months, numerous other French and Italian ships have been active in the mission.
The Netherlands participates in EMASoH for the international right to free passage and passage. This promotes the international legal order.