'We're seeing the limitations of warfare,' says Norwegian Foreign Minister

Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide discussed the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, highlighting the limitations of military power. He stated that the disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab Al Mandeb due to the Iran war are a "very big concern" and affect every country globally. Mr Eide also noted the economic fallout from these conflicts, emphasizing that seafaring and trading nations like Norway are directly impacted by blocked ships and increased transportation costs.

He likened the current situation to previous wars, stating that while they were devastating for those involved, they did not significantly affect global markets.

Mr Eide warned that continued conflict only exacerbates the difficulty of achieving lasting peace. He stressed the importance of mediation and peaceful negotiations to resolve these disputes, expressing optimism that a resolution is possible, even if it does not result in a complete military victory. Turning to the Palestinian situation, Mr Eide described Gaza's continued strife and the challenges in the West Bank, noting that while support for a Palestinian state among UN member states is high, the ground reality remains bleak.

He attributed this to the political situation and called for greater international support in realizing a two-state solution.

Eide recently visited Syria, where he met with President Ahmad Al Shara and expressed optimism about the country's progress. He praised the efforts of President Al Shara and his team, despite ongoing economic challenges and protests due to fuel subsidies. Eide commended Syria's progress despite its tumultuous history of civil war and dictatorship, signaling hope for a more stable future in the region.