Kallas: EU to step up Persian Gulf operation

The European Union is responding to growing tensions in the Persian Gulf by strengthening its Aspides naval mission. According to EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, the number of requests for protection of commercial ships has risen sharply following a series of attacks in the Gulf of Oman, writes DPA.

The Union will therefore send additional vessels to the region to ensure freedom of navigation and protect commercial traffic, particularly in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately one‑fifth of the world's oil passes.

The EU also called on Iran to stop the ‘unjustifiable’ attacks and refrain from further escalation. In a joint statement, foreign ministers called for respect for international law and the protection of civilians.

Kallas warned that a prolonged conflict could fundamentally disrupt the balance of power in the Middle East.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned of the real risk of escalation and stressed the need for Iran to transform, including by halting its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes.

(pir)