Latvia could send a presence to participate in the U.S. led international coalition to protect shipping in the Persian Gulf, Defense Ministry spokesman Kaspars Galkins said.

Galkins said that a political decision must first be made. He also said that it is not yet known whether the Latvian soldiers would fulfill their duties on a coalition naval ship or on the ground.

The Defense Ministry already in July admitted that it cannot send a naval ship for this mission, as none of its naval ships would be suitable.

The United States is currently putting together an international coalition to police the Persian Gulf after several incidents involving Iran this summer and increased tensions in the region.