00:00Even with the designation of the IRGC as a terrorist organization, isn't that largely symbolic with no effectiveness, no impact
00:10on the situation at all?
00:12No, it's not true. I mean, if we look at the European Union, we have the tools in our hands,
00:18which are economic tools.
00:20That's why, you know, we are also using the tools that we are as economic power.
00:25If all the neighboring countries here would also have the same sanctions on Iran, then, you know, it would be
00:34a different approach because then it would have a different effect.
00:39It's clear that some of the neighboring countries are also helping Iran to circumvent the sanctions.
00:44And now you're also paying the price.
00:47You are one of the most affected by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
00:53What did you do when Iran shut it down?
00:57And what will you do now so Iran doesn't impose fees or pressure?
01:03You know that any agreement with Iran will require you to provide concessions from your end.
01:10What are these concessions that you're willing to pay?
01:14Well, regarding the Strait of Hormuz, the ones who are most affected are the Asians.
01:18I mean, 85 percent of the LNG that goes via the Strait of Hormuz goes to Asia.
01:24So they are extremely worried.
01:27European share is not that big, but it's clear that, you know, the food, the fertilizers that also go to
01:34Africa via the Strait of Hormuz will have an impact also on Europe.
01:39So we are very much interconnected, and that's why we have been always advocating that there has to be a
01:45freedom of navigation.
01:48The Strait of Hormuz has to be open because it is also necessary for the global stability.
01:54What we have done and what we have, we have Operation Aspiders and Atalanta in the region.
02:00And they are now, I mean, Aspiders is guarding the Red Sea trade route for the Houthi attacks.
02:08Of course, we can also discuss to strengthen this operation.
02:14And the question has been also that we can be the ones who are, you know, escorting the ships after
02:21the cessation of hostilities.
02:23And that is also what has been asked from us.
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