Ministers eye deeper Gulf partnership as Iran tensions hit key trade routes Last updated: May 12, 2026 | 01:47 BRUSSELS: EU foreign ministers emphasised the importance of strengthening relations with the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council during their monthly meeting in Brussels on Monday. Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, announced the outcome in a briefing following the meeting, stating that ministers discussed the strategic partnership between the European Union and the GCC. Kallas pointed out that the situation in the Strait of Hormuz continues to deteriorate following recent Iranian attacks, which have significantly impacted several trade routes. She noted that the Iranian list of entities it considers a threat to freedom of navigation has been expanded. The ministers discussed the European naval operation, Aspides, which contributes to ensuring freedom of navigation.…