Mar 13 • 10:34 UTC 🇬🇷 Greece To Vima

War in Iran: "Closed the Strait of Hormuz for weeks" – Will Europe become a hostage to Russia?

The article discusses the implications of the ongoing War in Iran, particularly focusing on energy crises in Europe and the potential influence of Russia amid geopolitical tensions.

As the Third Gulf War enters its second week, Europe is grappling with the management of an energy crisis, the role of Russia, and the expectations of the Iranian populace, prompting discussions on the necessary direction of its foreign policy. According to Gudram Wolf, an economist at the Bruegel Institute in Brussels, there are significant immediate impacts of the conflict on the EU, especially in the context of energy supply disruptions. The article warns that the attack by Israel and the US on Iran has caused a profound global shock of uncertainty, marking perhaps the most severe disruption in oil supply chains historically. The conflict has led to unprecedented volatility in oil markets, leaving European leaders to consider how to navigate the impacts of this crisis. Wolf highlights that while the US maintains superior air capability, responses from Iranian forces, such as deploying naval mines or using small drones, pose considerable challenges that could exacerbate the situation. The fear is that any prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz would not only strain European economies but could also lead to reliance on Russian energy sources, a scenario European leaders aim desperately to avoid. The article ultimately raises the vital question of how Europe should adapt its foreign policy in the face of this multifaceted crisis, underscoring the importance of unity among EU member states. There is a growing urgency for the EU to formulate strategies to secure energy independence and decrease reliance on potential adversaries in the face of rising geopolitical tensions, especially as the future of the conflict in Iran remains uncertain.

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