Iran Press/ Europe: New Zealand's defense minister, Ron Mark said: "Britain asked New Zealand whether it could help patrol the Strait of Hormuz following the seizure of oil tankers by Iran, but we didn't have any boats to send."
According to a report by the New Zealand Herald Ron Mark added: "While no formal request for assistance was made, Britain approached New Zealand about whether it had any capacity to help. I've said right now both of my frigates are in Canada undergoing a refit. We don't actually have any capabilities available."
On the other hand, Australia's Government on Wednesday announced it was joining a United States-led effort in the waters between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
Mark told reporters that he had not been given a heads-up about Australia's decision, but understood a decision was pending.
Australia will send a Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon surveillance plane to the region for a month and an Australian frigate for six months from next year.
The United States has increased its military presence in the region and even called on other countries to join the US-led effort to enhance maritime security. 101/211/207
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