The European Union is exploring ways to maintain shipping through the Strait of Hormuz as the conflict between Iran, Israel, and the United States enters its third week, driving up energy and commodity prices globally. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated on Monday that the bloc is discussing potential actions to keep the strategic waterway open, ahead of a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels.
US President Donald Trump has called on allies, including France, China, Japan, South Korea, and Britain, to help secure the strait. Kallas suggested that the EU could expand its existing Aspides naval mission, currently protecting Red Sea shipping, into the Persian Gulf, or form a “coalition of the willing” with member states contributing military capacity on an ad hoc basis.
The war, which began with airstrikes by Israel and the US on February 28, has caused Brent crude prices to rise by over 40% and disrupted global supply chains beyond oil, affecting pharmaceuticals from India, semiconductors from Asia, and fertilisers from the Middle East. Cargo ships are either stuck in the Gulf or taking longer routes around Africa, while air cargo from the region is grounded.
France has indicated it is working with European, Indian, and Asian partners on a possible international escort mission, but only when “circumstances permit” and fighting subsides. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul told ARD television that Germany is not likely to become an active part of the conflict soon. Luxembourg’s Xavier Bettel noted that the EU remains uncommitted to military action, calling it an important decision.
Kallas acknowledged that using the existing Aspides operation might be the fastest way to provide security, but admitted it is not easy. The EU is also concerned about a potential refugee crisis in Iran if the war continues. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned that while the conflict has not yet caused immediate migratory flows toward the EU, the future remains uncertain and requires full mobilisation of migration diplomacy tools.
