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EU Stands With Gulf Against Iran's Attacks, Urges Hormuz Reopening

European Council President Antonio Costa arrived in Abu Dhabi, bringing a message of full solidarity with Gulf partners against Iran's recent attacks. He emphasized the EU's role as a reliable partner ready to contribute to regional stability and a comprehensive peace strategy. This follows EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's urgent call to reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, citing severe economic damage from its closure. The crisis was escalated by former US President Donald Trump's order for a naval blockade of the strait after failed talks with Iran.

Key Points: EU Solidarity with Gulf, Calls to Reopen Strait of Hormuz

  • EU solidarity with Gulf against Iran
  • Push to reopen Strait of Hormuz
  • Call for Middle East peace strategy
  • US naval blockade escalates crisis
  • Economic damage from trade route closure
2 min read

Stands in full solidarity with our Gulf partners against Iran's indiscriminate, unjustifiable, and unlawful attacks: European Council President

European Council President Antonio Costa expresses full solidarity with Gulf partners against Iran, as EU pushes for reopening the vital Strait of Hormuz.

"We stand in full solidarity in the face of Iran's indiscriminate, unjustifiable, and unlawful attacks. - Antonio Costa"

Abu Dhabi, April 14

President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, arrived in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday ahead of his two-day visit to UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.

Costa said that he came with a message of "full solidarity in the face of Iran's indiscriminate, unjustifiable, and unlawful attacks."

In a post on X, he said, "I am in Abu Dhabi ahead of a two-day tour of the UAE, KSA (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia), and Qatar, today and tomorrow. I come with three messages for our Gulf partners: We stand in full solidarity in the face of Iran's indiscriminate, unjustifiable, and unlawful attacks; We are a reliable partner for the Gulf countries and are ready to contribute; By working together, we can support a comprehensive strategy for lasting peace in the Middle East through negotiation and diplomacy."

Earlier on Monday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has underscored the critical need to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, describing the restoration of maritime access as a top priority for the international community.

Highlighting the severe economic and logistical consequences of the current blockade, the EU President stated, "The ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz is greatly damaging."

As regional tensions continue to impact global trade routes, von der Leyen called for immediate efforts to ensure the unhindered movement of vessels through the strategic waterway. "The restoration of the freedom of navigation is of paramount importance for us," she said.

This call for maritime stability comes as the crisis escalated sharply after US President Donald Trump declared a naval blockade on all vessels entering or exiting the Strait of Hormuz. The move follows the collapse of negotiations between American and Iranian delegations.

Issuing the directive after the talks failed, Trump stated, "Effective immediately, the United States Navy, the finest in the world, will begin the process of BLOCKADING any and all ships trying to enter or leave the Strait of Hormuz."

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Sarah B
The EU President is right to focus on reopening the Strait. The global supply chain is already fragile. This isn't just a regional issue; it affects everyone. Hope cooler heads prevail and they find a diplomatic solution quickly.
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Priya S
As an Indian, my first concern is for the thousands of our citizens working in the Gulf countries. Their safety is paramount. The government should have strong evacuation plans ready if tensions boil over. Jai Hind.
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Rohit P
The language from the European Council is very strong – "indiscriminate, unjustifiable, and unlawful." While Iran's actions are problematic, this feels like the West is picking sides again. India's balanced approach and historic ties with both sides is our strength. We must be the voice of reason.
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Karthik V
Trump's move to declare a naval blockade is incredibly reckless. It's like pouring petrol on a fire. This will hurt ordinary people across Asia the most through higher prices. The EU talking about diplomacy is good, but will they stand up to the US?
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Meera T
With respect, I feel the EU's statement lacks nuance. The situation didn't start with Iran's attacks alone. There's a long history here. A "comprehensive strategy for lasting peace" needs to address root causes, not just take one side. India should advocate for inclusive dialogue.
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