The European Union has updated its sanctions rules to allow new penalties against people or groups accused of helping Iran threaten shipping and navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. EU officials said the sanctions framework was originally created because of Iran’s support for Russia during the war in Ukraine. However, the new changes now also focus on security problems in the Middle East and the safety of international shipping routes. According to the European Council, the EU can now introduce travel bans and freeze the assets of individuals linked to actions that threaten freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important waterways because a large amount of global oil and gas shipments pass through it every day. Any disruption in the area can affect energy prices and global trade. The tensions increased after the US-Israeli conflict with Iran began in late February. Since then, the waterway has been heavily affected, raising fears about possible supply disruptions and regional instability. Iran recently said that 35 ships successfully passed through the strait during the last 24 hours, despite the ongoing tensions. European leaders say the new measures are aimed at protecting international trade and preventing further escalation in the Gulf region.