Europe Today A region at war, a Europe under pressure
Mar 17, 2026
Alina Valtanen, Finland’s foreign affairs minister in a correspondent report on NATO and Strait of Hormuz security. Dubravka Suica, European commissioner for the Mediterranean on EU engagement, regional diplomacy and civil society support. Vincenzo Genovese, Brussels correspondent reporting on turmoil in EU politics and the Manfred Weber controversy. They discuss Middle East escalation, Europe’s strategic choices and political fallout in Brussels.
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Dubai Reporter Describes Morning Missile Strike
- Jane Witherspoon described being woken by the loudest boom since the war began and moving her children for safety.
- Her house shook, floors and windows trembled, and authorities praised European air defence support from France, Italy, Germany and the UK.
Iran Shifts Toward Economic And Psychological Pressure
- Iran is expanding from military reprisals to economic pressure, threatening to use the Strait of Hormuz to exert regional leverage.
- Jane noted Iran's social media threats and attempts at psychological pressure as part of a broader strategy after missile strikes near the Iranian supreme leader's residence.
EU Attended Board Of Peace For Access Not Endorsement
- Dubravka Suica stressed the EU remains engaged on Gaza despite limited leverage and contested fora like Trump's Board of Peace.
- She said the Commission attended the Board of Peace meeting for courtesy and contact with regional ministers, not to legitimise its mandates.