Portugal indicates diplomacy to open the Strait of Hormuz

The Minister of State and Foreign Affairs Paulo Rangel claimed that Portugal believes all political and diplomatic efforts should be made to lift the Strait of Hormuz blockade, from where large part of the vessels carrying petrol pass through.  

"Everything that can be done to unblock the Strait of Hormuz and allow vessels to pass through is positive", and "there are many things that can be done on a political, a diplomatic level. This is the level where Portugal stands and, I believe, the European Union, too", Paulo Rangel stated.

In a statement during the meeting of European Union Heads of Diplomacy in Brussels on 16 March, the Minister underlined that "Portugal is not involved, nor will it be" in the conflict between the United States and Israel and Iran. 

Paulo Rangel said there is "wide consensus" among the European Union Governments to endeavour to "overcome this blockade or manipulation of free sailing" in the Strait of Hormuz, which does "not imply deploying the military to the region, and especially, the Strait of Hormuz".

"Everyone is willing, especially the ones with the greatest means, and when I say means, I refer to diplomatic means also, to cooperate in this sense", he added.

The Minister also said that Portugal has its "standing of principle" over the conflict, favouring negotiation, despite understanding that "this is a difficult path" and that "Iran is a serious threat, as can be seen". 

When Iran attacked its neighbouring countries, "who were not involved and some ofwhich had been quite harsh in condemning this attack [by the United States and Israel], this shows that Iran is not a reliable country".

Paulo Rangel claimed that Iran would respond striking at those who struck it, and attacking other States should not be considered retaliation, adding that "the Iranian regime proved to be a dangerous one".

The threat to attack commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz by the Iranian regime brought navigation to a halt, which transports mostly oil from the countries in the region, with an impact on prices and the world economy.