Paris/London: France and Italy have reportedly contacted Iran to ensure the safe passage of their commercial vessels through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
According to a report by the Financial Times, several European countries are engaging in discussions with Tehran to secure guarantees that their ships can transit the key maritime corridor safely.
The report said European nations are seeking to maintain energy supplies and avoid further escalation of regional tensions while ensuring uninterrupted shipping through the waterway.
However, it remains uncertain whether negotiations with Iran will progress or if Tehran will be willing to formally discuss arrangements regarding the passage of foreign vessels.
Meanwhile, officials in the United Kingdom stated that London is not currently holding direct talks with Iran regarding the transit of British vessels through the strait.
Separately, Turkey confirmed that Iran has allowed one of its ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. Turkish Transport Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu said that 15 Turkish vessels are currently present in the region, and one of them has already crossed the strategic waterway after receiving permission from Iran.
