- WIADOMOŚCI
Europe decides on a multilateral mission in Hormuz. Iran opens the strait
A conference attended by European leaders was held in Paris. The parties will seek to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz following the end of the war with Iran. Shortly after the meeting concluded, Iran announced the reopening of the strait.
The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran—and, as of Monday, also by the United States—requires a response from the international community. Europe has declared its willingness to help ensure the strait’s navigability, but only after a ceasefire is established or the conflict ends. The US representative did not participate in the talks.
The Paris meeting was attended by French President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. In addition, representatives from about 30 countries across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East joined the meeting via videoconference. Several countries expressed readiness to contribute to a potential future multilateral defence mission.
On Friday, April 17, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced the reopening of the strait to all commercial vessels. The reopening will remain in effect until the ceasefire with the United States and Israel expires, that is, until Wednesday, April 22. Reuters, citing diplomatic sources, reported that if the situation in the Strait of Hormuz returns to normal, there will be no need to implement a multilateral mission in the region. Donald Trump welcomed Iran’s decision with enthusiasm but emphasised that the American blockade of Iranian ports will continue until a comprehensive agreement between the parties is reached.
