EU Adds Possible Strait of Hormuz Closure to Sanctions List

The European Union has added any move by Iranian authorities to close the Strait of Hormuz to its international sanctions list, signaling fresh pressure over one of the world’s most important shipping lanes. The bloc also said it is preparing sanctions against those responsible for obstructing freedom of navigation in the strait. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has now been incorporated into the sanctions framework applied against Iran. The measure raises the stakes for maritime security and energy flows through the narrow passage linking Gulf producers to global markets. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio separately reiterated Washington’s opposition to Iran imposing fees on ships passing through the strait. He said there had been limited progress in talks between Washington and Tehran. Rubio’s comments came as the US and its allies continue to watch developments in the waterway closely, given its strategic role in international trade and regional security.