Finland prepares limited support for Strait of Hormuz security, stresses US dialogue

Finland is exploring ways to contribute to securing the Strait of Hormuz, though its role would likely be small-scale and non-military, Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen told national broadcaster Yle on Saturday.

Häkkänen confirmed that planning among allied nations is advancing rapidly, led primarily by major Western European countries. “We recognise that securing the strait is critically important for Europe’s economy,” he said, welcoming the initiative launched by the UK and France.

Finland’s potential involvement could include sending staff officers, providing expert support for planning tasks, or offering material assistance—similar to its contributions in past distant maritime operations. “Given our geography and regional security priorities, any participation would be very limited,” Häkkänen noted, calling the deployment of Finnish equipment to the area “highly unlikely.”

The minister emphasised that Finland’s defence resources remain focused on domestic and nearby regional preparedness. He also underscored the necessity of continuous dialogue with the US, following mixed signals from Washington. Earlier, US President Donald Trump had called for NATO support in Hormuz before declaring on Friday that allied assistance was no longer needed, claiming the strait’s crisis had “passed.”

Häkkänen acknowledged reports of the strait reopening over the weekend as “positive,” though he cautioned that uncertainty persists. Iran claimed on Saturday morning to have closed the strait again. Allied nations agree that any operation would require a lasting ceasefire and stability in the region first, he added.

President Alexander Stubb participated in a Friday videoconference organised by France and the UK to address the Hormuz situation and potential solutions.