• Iran's deputy foreign minister stated that Tehran does not attach any value to recent EU sanctions and will continue its strategy of maintaining sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The EU has expanded sanctions targeting Iranian entities and individuals linked to maritime activities in the Strait, part of broader Western pressure.
  • Analysts warn that any Iranian assertion of control over the chokepoint could heighten global energy market volatility.

Iran's deputy foreign minister on Thursday dismissed the latest round of EU sanctions, saying Tehran places no value on them and will press ahead with its strategy of asserting sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz. "The EU's measures are nothing new to us; we will continue to exercise our rights and maintain control over this strategic waterway," the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. The EU recently expanded sanctions against Iranian officials and entities tied to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' activities in the Strait, including asset freezes and travel bans.

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for about 20% of global oil and LNG shipments, has become a central lever for Tehran. Iran has long framed its control as non-negotiable, using it to counterbalance Western pressure and extract political concessions. "Without a deal, Tehran would be forced to escalate maritime signaling, potentially disrupting shipping routes and spooking energy markets," said a regional analyst.

European and Gulf policymakers remain wary, emphasizing the need to uphold freedom of navigation. "Any credible threat to traffic could trigger price spikes and insurance re-evaluations," warned a European shipping executive. Tehran's stance comes as EU coordination with the US and regional allies intensifies, including naval patrols and contingency plans.

In a separate development, Iran's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The EU sanctions are part of a broader pattern: since 2025, Brussels has designated multiple Iranian entities for domestic repression and regional activities, including those linked to the IRGC. Analysts see this as a multi-front approach to pressure Tehran on both internal and external behavior.

Correction: An earlier version of this article misstated the timing of the EU sanctions. They were imposed in late March, not April.