Lithuania's parliament has voted to send up to 40 military and civilian personnel to international maritime security operations in the Strait of Hormuz, with opposition saying the decision was essential to securing the continued rotation of American troops in the country.
The measure passed in the Seimas on Thursday with 77 votes in favour, 11 against and 6 abstentions, expanding a mandate that previously covered only 5 personnel and allowing participation in multiple operations in the region.
Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas said Lithuania is considering contributing demining capabilities, drone system management, surveillance equipment and other specialist resources.
He said Lithuania aims to participate in both the Franco-British coalition and the separate US-led mission operating in the area, describing the deployment as a defensive contribution to maritime security and energy stability. Any disruption to shipping through the strait, he noted, would affect oil and energy prices across Europe.
Some lawmakers opposed the decision, citing an insufficiently clear mission definition and the risk of being drawn into a broader regional conflict. Supporters argued that such deployments are standard Nato practice, with specific tasks determined by allies.
