EU Considers Expanding Naval Mission to Strait of Hormuz Amid Iran Conflict

The EU is considering expanding its Aspides naval mission, currently protecting ships from Yemen's Houthi rebels in the Red Sea, to the Strait of Hormuz amid disruptions caused by the ongoing conflict involving Iran. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas highlighted discussions on increasing member state contributions and possibly changing the mission's mandate. While some officials, including Germany's foreign minister, expressed skepticism about the mission's effectiveness in the Gulf, France and others are exploring coalition efforts to secure this vital shipping route, crucial for global oil supplies.