Helsinki: Finnish President Alexander Stubb highlighted the importance of maintaining dialogue with Iran following a phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Stubb shared on US social media platform X that the conversation focused on the pressing need for a ceasefire and a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing conflict.

According to Anadolu Agency, Stubb emphasized the significance of continued engagement with Iran despite existing political differences. He stated, "Despite our differences, it is important to continue the dialogue." During their discussion, Stubb reiterated the necessity of halting attacks on neighboring countries and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global oil supplies.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately 20 million barrels of oil transit daily, has faced disruptions since early March. This follows measures by Iran in response to the US-Israeli offensive that began on February 28. The situation has prompted calls from former US President Trump for European allies and Gulf nations to play a more active role in securing the strait, highlighting the responsibility of oil-dependent countries to ensure its reopening.

The regional tensions have been on the rise since the joint offensive by the US and Israel against Iran, with Tehran retaliating through drone and missile strikes targeting Israel and other countries in the region, including Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf nations hosting US military assets.