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Iran-Kuwait-Israel Conflict Escalates Amid Global Energy Concerns

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Iran launched drone attacks on Kuwait’s Mina Al-Ahmadi oil refinery, causing fires and further straining global energy supplies, while Israel killed a spokesperson for Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in a targeted strike in Tehran. The ongoing U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran has already disrupted oil and LNG flows through the Strait of Hormuz, affecting roughly 12% of global demand and sending Brent crude prices to $108 per barrel.

Air raids and missile barrages have shaken cities in Israel and Iran, with Israel targeting Iranian government facilities and Iran retaliating with strikes on multiple energy assets in the Gulf. The conflict has displaced millions and killed thousands, heightening tensions in the region and drawing warnings from European allies who emphasize de-escalation and the protection of international shipping lanes.

Despite U.S. and Israeli efforts to disable Iran’s missile and nuclear capabilities, Iran continues production and attacks, highlighting a complex war with no clear end. The crisis has severe economic implications, as energy disruptions are expected to impact supply chains for months or even years, prompting U.S. considerations for deploying additional troops to the region.

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EU Considers Strengthening Naval Mission Amid Strait of Hormuz Crisis

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Foreign ministers from the European Union are set to discuss strengthening their naval presence in the Middle East as tensions surrounding Iran disrupt global shipping routes. The talks in Brussels will focus on reinforcing the EU’s Operation Aspides, which was launched in 2024 to protect commercial vessels from attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels in the Red Sea.

The ongoing conflict involving Iran has intensified concerns over the security of the Strait of Hormuz, a key passage that handles roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. Since military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran in late February, traffic through the strait has been severely disrupted, prompting discussions on whether the EU mission could help restore safe navigation.

However, some European officials remain cautious about expanding the mission’s mandate. Johann Wadephul expressed scepticism about extending the operation to the Strait of Hormuz, arguing that the current mission has not been fully effective in its existing role. Meanwhile, Donald Trump has urged major economies to work together to secure shipping routes, though any change to the EU mission would require approval from all 27 member states.

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France Plans Major Naval Deployment, Considers Hormuz Escort Mission

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France plans to deploy nearly a dozen naval vessels to the Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea, and possibly the Strait of Hormuz as tensions rise in the Middle East, President Emmanuel Macron said on Monday. The deployment includes the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier strike group along with several warships, aimed at supporting allies and protecting maritime security.

Macron made the announcement during a visit to Cyprus, where he met President Nikos Christodoulides and Greece Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The French leader sought to reassure regional partners after drones were intercepted heading toward the island last week amid escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran.

France also plans to reinforce the European Union naval mission Operation Aspides, launched in 2024 to protect shipping in the Red Sea from attacks by Iran-aligned militants. Macron said Paris could eventually support a defensive escort mission for commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz to safeguard global shipping and help stabilise trade routes.

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Netanyahu Says US-Israeli War on Iran Will Not Be Prolonged

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the war against Iran would be decisive and not drag on for years, describing it as potentially lasting weeks rather than becoming an “endless war.” Speaking in a televised interview, Netanyahu stressed that while the conflict may take some time, it would not mirror the prolonged wars of the past. The joint U.S.-Israeli air campaign began over the weekend, with Donald Trump initially suggesting a timeline of four to five weeks, though later remarks signalled a broader and open-ended approach.

The conflict has rapidly expanded beyond Iran and Israel, with Tehran launching missile and drone strikes targeting Israel, U.S. forces, and Gulf states hosting American bases. Israel has struck Iranian-linked targets in Lebanon, including Hezbollah positions, and reinforced troop deployments along its northern border. Iranian attacks have reportedly hit U.S. facilities in the region, including drone strikes near Riyadh and claims of damage to a U.S. base in Bahrain. Casualties have mounted across Iran, Israel, Lebanon and neighbouring states as exchanges intensify.

The escalating war has disrupted global aviation and energy markets, with thousands of Gulf flights cancelled and major hubs such as Dubai temporarily shut. Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz — a key artery for global oil trade — has been severely affected, driving oil prices and tanker rates sharply higher. Washington has ordered non-essential personnel to leave several regional countries, while U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that stronger American military action could still follow. Diplomatic tensions remain high as global powers react to one of the most significant Middle East escalations in decades.

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EU Urges Restraint and Respect for International Law in Iran Conflict

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The European Union’s 27 member states have called for “maximum restraint” and full adherence to international law amid escalating hostilities involving Iran. In a statement issued after an emergency meeting of foreign ministers, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stressed the need to protect civilians and uphold the principles of the UN Charter and international humanitarian law. The appeal followed U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran and Tehran’s retaliatory attacks on Israel, U.S. forces and Gulf countries, which the EU described as inexcusable violations of sovereignty.

The bloc also voiced concern about the broader regional and economic fallout of the conflict, warning against escalation that could destabilize the Middle East and beyond. It highlighted the importance of keeping critical waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz open, citing risks to global energy supplies and supply chains. Disruptions to oil flows could have significant economic consequences for Europe, which is already grappling with geopolitical uncertainty.

The joint statement reflected differing views within the EU over the U.S.-Israeli military action. While German Chancellor Friedrich Merz signaled caution against criticizing allies, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez rejected the strikes as contributing to global instability. Diplomats acknowledged that Europe has limited leverage over the unfolding crisis, despite the potential for serious regional and economic repercussions.

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