EU wants to send a mission to the Strait of Hormuz after the conflict ends, Iran warns it is closed to enemies

The European Union is considering sending a mission to the Strait of Hormuz after the end of the current conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said after a meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese that any operation would only be considered after the fighting has ended. At the same time, she stressed the need for a diplomatic solution and drew attention to the critical energy supply situation, which affects gas and oil prices and the functioning of economies around the world.

Tensions in the region escalated after US President Donald Trump's statement on 21 March, when he threatened to destroy Iran's energy facilities if the strait was not fully opened to shipping within 48 hours. Iran responded by warning of retaliatory strikes on US energy and communications infrastructure in the region. Two days later, Trump ordered a five-day postponement of the planned strikes, citing „constructive talks,“ which Tehran denied.

According to the Iranian ambassador to Germany Majid Nili Ahmadabadi the Strait of Hormuz remains open to all states that Iran does not consider aggressors. However, ships associated with the United States and its allies face restrictions. Ahmadabadi stressed that Iran has no interest in the economic consequences of war and will support a permanent ceasefire if it meets its political and economic interests. At the same time, Iranian officials have previously warned that they may control shipping in the Strait and block oil shipments linked to the United States.

Meanwhile, according to The Washington Post, the United States is strengthening its military presence in the Middle East and is considering an operation to take control of the strait. This move is seen as a possible final stage in the conflict, as the original objectives - regime change in Iran and a complete halt to its nuclear programme - are proving unrealistic. Control of the Strait would allow Washington to end the war with a declared victory, stabilise global energy markets and weaken Iran's strategic position.

However, such an operation would be extremely complex and could take weeks. U.S. forces would face threats from coastal forces, drones and naval mines. Ensuring safe passage would require extensive military and intelligence capabilities for an indefinite period of time. Moreover, any successful attack by Iran could trigger panic in world markets.

Although Iran officially claims that the strait is not closed, actual ship traffic is minimal because shipping companies fear attacks. The situation remains one of the most serious threats to global energy supplies.

gnews.cz - GH