Meloni on Hormuz: Vital for the European Union

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni emphasized that freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz is "vital" for the EU. As Iran's plan for additional transit fees shakes energy markets, the Rome administration has called for international cooperation to ensure security.

Reports that the Tehran administration plans to demand additional fees from ships passing through the strait, citing war conditions, have created new pressures on the markets. This development has led to rising energy prices and increased uncertainty in trade.

Speaking in the Italian Parliament, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated that ensuring free passage in the Strait of Hormuz is among the "vital" interests of her country and the entire European Union. Noting that the two-week ceasefire reached between the US and Iran must be maintained, Meloni said, "We are very close to the point of no return. However, we are now facing a fragile possibility of peace that must be maintained with determination."

According to Meloni, the economic effects of Iran's potential additional tariff applications will not be limited to the region and could reach dimensions that could change trade routes.

The Prime Minister noted that they are working with the Hormuz Coalition, which includes more than 30 countries led by the UK, with the goal of maintaining energy supply security. Furthermore, calling for an end to Israel's military operation in Lebanon, Meloni said that ending the conflicts in the region would be in the interest of all parties.

'ITALY'S STANCE IS CAUTIOUS'

Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini stated that his country would not send any patrol ships to the region without a United Nations mandate.

While Meloni stated that the two-week ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran should not be violated, she called on Israel to stop its military operations in Lebanon.

Reiterating that they do not support the US's decisions for military intervention against Iran, Meloni said, "We are very close to the point of no return. However, we are now facing a fragile possibility of peace that must be maintained with determination."

Speaking in parliament for the first time following the judicial reform referendum held in recent weeks that left the government in a difficult position, Meloni emphasized that the possibility of a comprehensive cabinet reshuffle is not on the table.