The EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, has stated that any scheme involving tolls for passage through the Strait of Hormuz could set a dangerous precedent for global maritime routes.
“Under international law, transit through waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz must remain open and free of charge,” she wrote, commenting on an international video conference on the Strait of Hormuz.
She noted that this was precisely what leaders had already made clear, calling for the resumption of traffic through the strait.
“Iran must abandon any plans to levy transit fees. Europe will play its part in restoring the free flow of energy and trade as soon as a ceasefire (a permanent one – ed.) is reached,” Kaja Kallas emphasised.
She also noted that the EU naval mission (Operation Aspides) is already active in the Red Sea region and could be rapidly reinforced to protect shipping.
“This could be the quickest way to provide support,” she concluded.
