Tehran reports that discussions on a peace agreement involving Iran have reached the final stage, even as preparations begin to restore safe shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Following a war launched by the US and Israel against Iran, Tehran shut the strategic waterway. Reports also claim Iran laid sea mines in the area to counter a US naval blockade.
With talks under way to end the conflict, a multinational coalition of more than 40 countries—led by the UK and France—is expected to begin mine-clearance operations once a ceasefire agreement is formally signed.
For this mission, the UK’s RFA Lyme Bay, stationed off Gibraltar, has placed hundreds of British naval personnel on standby. The ship is being loaded with explosives and advanced underwater drones equipped with sonar.
The vessel is preparing to depart soon for the Persian Gulf via Egypt’s Suez Canal, as part of the preliminary work to reopen the strait for secure maritime traffic.
