Germany preparing to join UK-led Hormuz mission

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said that the country is preparing to join a UK-led mission aimed at securing the Strait of Hormuz, Al Jazeera reported. Speaking to reporters, Wadephul clarified that he does not view the initiative as a Nato operation. He also said the planned US troop reduction had long been expected, referring to Washington’s announcement earlier this month that around 5,000 troops would be withdrawn from the country over the next 6–12 months.