European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has called for negotiations with Iran to help bring an end to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Von der Leyen made the remarks on Monday following the conclusion of a new free-trade agreement between the EU and Australia. She stressed the serious impact the conflict is having on global energy supplies, warning that rising gas and oil prices are affecting businesses and societies worldwide.
“We all experience the knock-on effects on gas and oil prices, our businesses, and our societies, but it is crucial that we reach a negotiated solution that ends the hostilities in the Middle East,” she said.
Addressing questions on the EU’s role in the Strait of Hormuz once it reopens, von der Leyen said European leaders had indicated they could participate in operations after the fighting stops. “The leaders from the European Union have made it clear that once the fighting stops, they might consider carrying out an operation or a mission. But of course, it is not for me to judge their decision to provide the necessary capabilities in the Strait of Hormuz,” she added.