Tuesday, 02 January 2024 12:17 GMT

Von der Leyen Supports US-Iran Deal to Reopen Strait of Hormuz


(MENAFN) European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen threw her support behind emerging negotiations between Washington and Tehran on Sunday, urging a comprehensive agreement capable of defusing regional tensions and restoring critical maritime access.

Speaking via the social media platform X, von der Leyen signaled cautious optimism while outlining firm conditions Europe expects any deal to meet.

"I welcome the progress towards an agreement between the US and Iran. We need a deal that truly de-escalates the conflict, reopens the Strait of Hormuz and guarantees toll free full freedom of navigation," von der Leyen said.

The European Commission chief issued a stark warning over Iran's nuclear ambitions, reiterating that Tehran "must not be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon" — while also demanding a halt to what she characterized as "destabilizing in the region, directly or through proxies, as well as its unjustified and repeated attacks on its neighbours."

Von der Leyen pledged sustained diplomatic engagement, writing: "Europe will continue working with international partners to seize this moment for a lasting diplomatic solution. And to contain the spillover of this conflict, notably on supply chains and energy prices."

Her remarks follow a significant development from Washington on Saturday, when US President Donald Trump, following a call with regional leaders, declared that a deal with Iran to end the conflict — which erupted on Feb. 28 and effectively shuttered the strategic strait — was "largely negotiated" and pending final confirmation.

The closure has rattled global energy markets and supply chains, adding urgency to diplomatic efforts on both sides of the Atlantic.

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