Britain Prepares Mine-Hunting Role in Coalition
The UK’s Royal Navy is preparing to take a leading role in coalition operations to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, according to reports. Defense officials are considering deploying a vessel—or a leased commercial ship—as a “mothership” for autonomous mine-hunting systems.
The plan would unfold in phases: first, clearing naval mines with advanced autonomous systems; then deploying uncrewed surface vessels alongside Type 45 destroyers to protect tankers. Officials stressed the UK’s “world-leading” mine-hunting and destroyer capabilities, highlighting the hybrid navy concept to reduce risks to personnel.
The Strait of Hormuz, through which 20 million barrels of oil pass daily, has been effectively throttled since early March amid the US-Israeli offensive against Iran and Tehran’s retaliatory strikes. Disruption has driven up shipping costs and global oil prices.
Despite reports of mines, officials say a “clear path” remains, as Indian, Pakistani, and Chinese ships continue transiting the waterway. The UK initiative would join US and French efforts to secure one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints.
Source: Newstimehub
Somalia declares South West State's leadership mandate expired amid rising tensions
Somalia’s central government said late on Sunday that the mandate of South West State’s president and administration had officially expired as tensions between the two sides continue to escalate.
Chad relocates Sudan refugees as army deploys near border
Chad has begun the emergency relocation of refugees from its border with Sudan as the army prepares to deploy to the area in response to cross-border attacks, an official said on Monday.
Iran denies holding negotiations with US after Trump claims 'productive talks'
Tehran had threatened it will “irreversibly destroy” essential infrastructure across the Middle East if the US follows through on Trump’s threat to “obliterate” Iran’s power plants.
