EU FM Kallas calls Iran FM Araghchi and Turkey/Qatar/South Korea on Hormuz — 'diplomatic avenues' as deadline nears

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas made multiple calls on Day 23 as the Trump 48-hour Hormuz ultimatum approaches expiry. CALLS MADE: - Iran FM Abbas Araghchi - Turkish FM (counterpart) - Qatari FM (counterpart) - South Korean FM (counterpart) TOPICS: 'War in the Middle East, attacks on energy infrastructure, and the urgent need to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.' EU STATEMENT: 'These engagements were part of the EU's ongoing efforts to explore diplomatic avenues forward. Fresh threats to attack critical civilian infrastructure risk impacting millions of people across the Middle East and beyond.' KALLAS-ARAGHCHI HISTORY: Last spoke Wednesday, when Kallas said Hormuz safe passage was 'a priority for Europe.' SIGNIFICANCE: The Kallas-Araghchi call is the most senior EU-Iran diplomatic contact since the conflict began. The inclusion of Turkey and Qatar — both key Iran intermediaries — and South Korea (major LNG buyer) signals EU is building a diplomatic coalition around Hormuz re-opening separate from the US-Israel military track. Timing: hours before the Trump deadline.