-- European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warned Tuesday that disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz could carry major economic costs, urging action to ensure uninterrupted energy shipments.
Kaja Kallas delivered the remarks following a Foreign Affairs Council meeting, where European Union foreign ministers held discussions.
Kallas said the Middle East is at a critical juncture, where ceasefires remain in place but risk collapsing without timely diplomatic engagement.
She warned that a return to hostilities could have severe consequences for all parties, stressing the urgency of continuing negotiations to preserve regional stability.
The ministers reaffirmed that freedom of navigation remains essential, criticized repeated uncertainty over the Strait of Hormuz, and called for uninterrupted transit without additional costs.
Kallas said the European Union's ASPIDES naval mission is key to safeguarding regional shipping routes, urging member states to allocate additional resources to strengthen maritime security efforts.
The bloc has also agreed politically to expand sanctions on Iran, targeting individuals and entities responsible for violations of navigation rights, in addition to existing restrictive measures, she said.
Kallas reiterated that the European Union opposes Iran developing nuclear weapons, aligning with Gulf partners, while stressing any durable deal must also address missile programs and regional activities.
Lebanon continues to bear significant fallout from the conflict, with Prime Minister Salam outlining efforts to advance peace talks with Israel and reduce Hezbollah's influence, she added.