• German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warns that the Strait of Hormuz is partially mined amid heightened tensions with Iran.
  • Germany conditions any naval participation on a clear international mandate and parliamentary approval.
  • The crisis threatens global energy markets, with potential spikes in oil prices and shipping insurance costs.

Strait of Hormuz Partially Mined, Merz Says

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Thursday said the Strait of Hormuz is partially mined, according to people familiar with his briefing to parliament. The revelation marks a significant escalation in the ongoing standoff with Iran, which has threatened to disrupt shipping through the strategic waterway.

"We assess that parts of the strait have been mined, likely by Iranian forces," Merz said during a closed-door session, according to a lawmaker present. "This is a direct threat to international maritime traffic and global energy security."

Merz's comments come as Germany weighs participation in a multinational naval mission to secure the passage. However, he stressed that any German involvement would require a clear UN or EU mandate and a vote in the Bundestag. "We will not rush into a military engagement without a solid legal basis and domestic approval," he added.

Economic Shockwaves

The situation has already rattled oil markets, with Brent crude jumping 3% on the news to $92 per barrel. Shipping insurers are hiking premiums for vessels transiting the region, sources say, with some firms refusing to cover voyages through the strait altogether.

Germany, which imports roughly a third of its oil from the Middle East, is particularly exposed. The government is scrambling to identify alternative supply routes and has activated its emergency energy task force, according to a spokesperson for the economy ministry.

International Response

The US and UK have expressed readiness to support a multinational force, but European allies remain divided. France has called for a diplomatic solution, while Italy has offered logistical support. Iran has denied mining the strait, calling the allegations "propaganda" in a state media broadcast.

Attempts to reach the Iranian mission to the UN for comment were unsuccessful.

Industry groups warn that without a swift resolution, energy prices could spiral, with implications for European inflation and central bank policy. "This is the most serious disruption risk since the 2019 attacks on Saudi Aramco facilities," said a senior executive at a major shipping firm, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The situation is fluid, and this report will be updated as details emerge.