PARIS – Former European Union Commissioner Thierry Breton warned on Monday that Iran holds the key to the Strait of Hormuz and that any reopening of the strategic waterway depends entirely on Tehran’s decision, despite ongoing threats from U.S. President Donald Trump. Breton made the remarks during an interview with French broadcaster BFM TV, highlighting Iran’s increasingly strong position in regional security dynamics.
Breton stressed that Tehran is not acting alone, noting that the country receives technical and strategic support from China in military and defense capabilities. “Iran is engaged in asymmetric warfare against some of the most powerful military forces in the world,” Breton said, pointing out that the United States has expressed growing concern about Iran’s stockpiles of advanced weaponry.
The former EU commissioner also warned that the ongoing tensions have raised the stakes in the Middle East, with potential consequences for global energy supplies. The Strait of Hormuz is a vital chokepoint, through which nearly a fifth of the world’s oil shipments pass. Any disruption could have major implications for international markets.
The heightened tensions follow a February 28 attack by U.S. and Israeli forces on Iranian targets, which left hundreds dead. In retaliation, Iran has used unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) and missile strikes targeting Israel and U.S. allied countries, while also restricting maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts have warned that the situation could escalate further, as both sides continue to demonstrate military readiness.
Breton’s comments come amid increasing international concern over Tehran’s military capabilities and its willingness to leverage the strategic waterway for political advantage. Observers say that Iran’s control over the Strait gives it a powerful bargaining position in any potential negotiations with Western powers.
