The European Union is backing continued diplomatic pressure on Iran as efforts intensify to end the conflict and restore freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
EU officials have stressed the importance of keeping diplomatic channels open while also considering measures to strengthen maritime security in the region. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has called for additional naval and air assets for Operation ASPIDES, the bloc’s defensive maritime mission in the Red Sea.
The issue of the Strait of Hormuz and the wider maritime crisis is expected to feature prominently in upcoming EU defence discussions. European officials have described Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb as critical maritime chokepoints whose disruption could have consequences well beyond the region.
The EU has also reiterated its position that freedom of navigation and maritime security must be protected in accordance with international law. The European Council has called for the strengthening of Operation ASPIDES while maintaining its defensive mandate.
Focus on Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb
The European Union is also considering ways to increase the capabilities of Operation ASPIDES in the Red Sea. Kallas has said the mission needs more naval and air assets as threats to commercial shipping have increased.
The operation was established in February 2024 to protect merchant vessels and safeguard freedom of navigation following repeated attacks on international shipping by Yemen’s Houthi movement. Its mandate was extended in February 2026 through February 2027.
Italy has separately called for greater European participation in the mission. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said on September 25 that Europe should strengthen ASPIDES to help protect shipping through the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb.
Diplomatic efforts remain central
Alongside discussions on maritime security, European officials have continued to pursue diplomatic engagement with Tehran.
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Kaja Kallas held separate talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in New York earlier this week. The discussions included efforts to end the conflict and restore freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb.
The EU has also publicly called for de-escalation and protection of civilians while condemning attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
The developments come as the strategic waterways remain at the centre of international concern because of their importance to global trade and energy supplies.
Source: Al Arabiya, with additional reporting from EU institutions and European officials
For: Aalimi Nation
