France and Italy have opened talks with Iran to secure an agreement that would guarantee the safe passage of their commercial ships through the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz.
The discussions come amid heightened concerns over maritime security in the waterway, which handles roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments.
Rising tensions in the region, sparked by the ongoing Middle East conflict, have resulted in tanker attacks and major disruptions to energy markets.
The diplomatic initiative by Paris and Rome highlights growing European anxiety over potential energy supply interruptions and oil prices approaching $100 per barrel.
At the same time, the negotiations have sparked divisions within Europe, with some countries expressing caution about engaging directly with Tehran.
European governments are also weighing military options, including ship escort missions or broader international naval operations, should conditions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to worsen.
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