Germany is moving two naval vessels towards Djibouti as it prepares for a possible mine-clearing mission in the Strait of Hormuz. The decision shows that Berlin is treating the security of maritime trade routes not only as a Middle Eastern issue, but also as a European economic and military interest. The German mine-clearing ship Fulda and the supply ship Mosel have passed through the Suez Canal and are heading to Djibouti. Around 140 German soldiers are on board, including mine-clearance