The chief of the navy's staff said that Italy was ready to send up to four vessels, including minesweepers as part of an international effort to clear the Strait of Hormuz.

Last week, European leaders met in Paris to discuss a multi-national effort to protect shipping along the Strait of Hormuz. The strait was closed for most of the war between the U.S. and Israel against Iran.

Around a fifth of all oil and gas liquefied in the world passes through the Strait of Hormuz. Over a dozen countries have pledged to join a mission ensuring safe passage, once conditions permit.

The contingency plan drafted by the Chief of Defence Staff envisions a group of two minesweepers and an escort ship, as well as a logistic vessel," Navy Chief Giuseppe Berutti Bergotto said to state broadcaster RAI on late Wednesday.

"Obviously, we're not acting alone." "We are part of a coalition and other nations will?send minersweepers," said he, adding that Britain France Belgium and the Netherlands had mine-clearing capability.

Berutti Bergotto stated that the Italian ships will sail from the northwestern port La Spezia, and it would take them four weeks to get there. Italy has eight minesweepers currently in service.

Last week, Defence Minister Guido Crosetto stated that Italy would need to get parliamentary approval prior to participating in the mission. (Reporting and editing by Angelo Amante)

(source: Reuters)