Netherlands pulls Dutch warship Zr. Ms. Evertsen from Mediterranean

The Dutch frigate Zr. Ms. Evertsen will return to the Netherlands early this month after the government decided not to extend its deployment to the eastern Mediterranean Sea, Defense Minister Yesilgöz and Foreign Minister Berendsen said in a letter to parliament.

The warship sailed in March at France’s request to help protect countries in the region from Iranian attacks. Its mission was extended last month until early May.

In consultation with France, the Netherlands has now decided against keeping the vessel in the area longer. The ministers’ letter does not explain why the mission will not continue.

The Evertsen is equipped with specialized systems to detect aerial threats such as missiles and drones and can shoot down drones itself.

The one-month extension approved last month cost 5 million euros, bringing the total cost of the deployment to 7.5 million euros. The government did not formally need parliament’s approval to launch the mission but held a vote on March 11, which passed with broad support.

Separately, the cabinet is examining whether the Netherlands will join an international effort to secure shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, the ministers wrote. More than 40 countries are involved in those plans.

The United States has also asked allies to contribute to a political and military initiative in the Strait of Hormuz. Yesilgöz and Berendsen said they are reviewing that American request.