Minister Blok on frigate De Ruyter: prevent escalation with Iran Interior

The Dutch navy ship is participating in a European mission, which is now officially starting. The display of power in the Strait of Hormuz is intended to deter and prevent any ‘aggressive actions’ that may hinder shipping, Blok said. The Netherlands sent the De Ruyter after a series of attacks on oil tankers. The Netherlands as a trading country wants to act anywhere in the world when trade and stability are threatened: “We don’t want our ships to be attacked.”

The minister is on tour in the Middle East to ensure that the tensions are reduced by conversations with those in power. “That we no longer need warships. That we ultimately get everyone around the table. ”

It will not be easy, acknowledges Blok. But he points out that he was received by the regime in Iran on Saturday. “If they weren’t interested in the Dutch effort, they wouldn’t have done it all.”