The IMO is preparing to evacuate seafarers stuck in the region. File Image / Pixabay

Denmark is set to join a UK- and France-led mission to help protect commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

Shipowners’ association Danish Shipping has welcomed the move, describing it as an important contribution to maritime security and global supply chains, it said in an email statement on Tuesday.

The Danish government has secured broad parliamentary support for participation in the Multinational Military Mission for the Strait of Hormuz (MMMSoH), a coalition aimed at safeguarding civilian shipping and keeping key trade routes open.

“I am very pleased and grateful that the Danish government and a broad majority in the Danish Parliament once again want Denmark to be part of an international coalition tasked with protecting civilian shipping and keeping vital supply chains open,” Anne H. Steffensen, CEO of Danish Shipping, said.

“As one of the world's largest maritime nations, Denmark has both a clear interest in and a responsibility to contribute to security on key international shipping routes.

“It is good and right that Denmark is taking on this responsibility.”

According to Defence Minister Jeppe Bruus, Denmark's contribution is expected to include interpreters, drone capabilities, staff officers and cyber support.

Danish Shipping also urged policymakers to maintain focus on security threats in the Red Sea, where attacks on commercial vessels have forced many ships to divert around Africa, increasing voyage times and bunker fuel consumption.

The Danish government will now submit a parliamentary resolution on participation in the mission for fast-track approval.

The move comes after the US and Iran agreed to a 60-day framework intended to end the conflict in the region.

The IMO is meanwhile preparing plans to evacuate more than 11,000 seafarers stranded in the area due to the tensions.