The European Union may send ships to the Strait of Hormuz only after the end of hostilities between the US and Israel against Iran. This position was confirmed by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen following talks with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Canberra.

Responding to a question about the role of European countries in ensuring safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, von der Leyen did not rule out such a possibility in the future. "EU leaders have made it clear that they can only consider an operation or mission after the fighting is over," The Australian quoted the EC chief as saying.

She acknowledged that the energy supply situation has already become "critical for allies around the world." "We all feel the consequences of this in the form of rising gas and oil prices for our businesses and society as a whole, but we must reach a negotiated solution," von der Leyen added.