English Media: European Countries in Talks with Iran to Resume Hormuz Strait Shipping

BlockBeats News, March 13th, According to the Financial Times, some European countries, including France, have held talks with Iran to reach an agreement to ensure their ships can safely pass through the Strait of Hormuz, thereby restoring energy transit in the Gulf region.

Three officials familiar with the negotiations said that several European countries have engaged in preliminary discussions in an attempt to restore oil and gas exports without escalating the conflict. Two officials said that France is one of the countries involved in the negotiations. Another official stated that Italy is also trying to engage with Iran on this issue.

European countries have been striving to avoid direct involvement in the conflict, with some countries criticizing the initial strikes by the United States and Israel against Iran. However, governments are deeply concerned about the prolonged blockade of the strait potentially raising energy costs for businesses and households.

Another official mentioned that some European countries are opposed to efforts to engage with Iran. A UK official stated that the UK has not engaged in direct negotiations with Iran on entering the strait. However, UK Foreign Secretary Raab, who is visiting Saudi Arabia, is discussing the ongoing oil supply matter with Gulf countries. (FX678)