NewKerala.com

EU Urges Restraint as US-Israel Strikes on Iran Escalate Middle East Tensions

The European Union has expressed grave concern over escalating Middle East tensions following coordinated US-Israel attacks on Iran and Iranian missile launches at Israel. EU leaders Ursula von der Leyen and Kaja Kallas emphasized the critical need to prevent further escalation and protect the global non-proliferation regime. The bloc is withdrawing non-essential personnel, facilitating departures for EU citizens, and keeping its Red Sea naval mission on high alert. The EU reaffirms its support for diplomatic solutions while maintaining strong sanctions against Iran's ballistic missile and nuclear programs.

Key Points: EU Calls for Restraint Amid US-Israel & Iran Strikes

  • EU calls for maximum restraint
  • Sanctions Iran's regime & Revolutionary Guards
  • Coordinates citizen evacuations
  • Aspides naval mission on high alert
2 min read

EU calls for restraint amid escalating tensions in Middle East

EU urges maximum restraint, coordinates citizen safety, and deploys naval mission as US-Israel attacks on Iran risk wider Middle East conflict.

"Ensuring nuclear safety and preventing any actions that could further escalate tensions... is of critical importance. - Ursula von der Leyen"

Brussels, Feb 28

The European Union on Saturday expressed serious concerns over the latest developments in Iran, while reaffirming its steadfast commitment to safeguarding regional security and stability. The EU stated that it remains in close contact with the partners in the region.

"Ensuring nuclear safety and preventing any actions that could further escalate tensions or undermine the global non-proliferation regime is of critical importance. The European Union has adopted extensive sanctions in response to the actions of Iran's murderous regime and the Revolutionary Guards and has consistently promoted diplomatic efforts aimed at addressing the nuclear and ballistic programmes through a negotiated solution," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen posted on X

"In close coordination with EU Member States, we will take all necessary steps to ensure that EU citizens in the region can count on our full support," she added

The EU called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint, to protect civilians, and to fully respect international law.

Meanwhile, the European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President Kaja Kallas described the latest developments across the Middle East as "perilous". She accused the Iranian regime of killing thousands, stating that Iran's ballistic missile and nuclear programmes, along with support for terror groups, pose a serious threat to global security.

"The EU has adopted strong sanctions against Iran and supported diplomatic solutions, including on the nuclear issue. I have spoken to Israel's Foreign Minister Saar and other ministers in the region. The EU is also coordinating closely with Arab partners to explore diplomatic paths. Protection of civilians and international humanitarian law is a priority," she posted on X

"Our consular network is fully engaged in facilitating departures for EU citizens. Non-essential EU personnel are being withdrawn from the region. Our Aspides naval mission remains on high alert in the Red Sea and stands ready to help keep the maritime corridor open," she added.

The United States and Israel launched coordinated attacks on Iran on Saturday, significantly intensifying tensions in the Middle East. The development raises concerns of a widening confrontation that could have far-reaching geopolitical and economic consequences. Iran, in turn, launched ballistic missiles at Israel, the Israeli military confirmed.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While the EU is right to be concerned, their focus seems selective. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues. All parties must be held accountable, not just Iran. India has always advocated for peaceful dialogue and should use its good relations with all sides to help de-escalate.
R
Rohit P
This is getting very dangerous. The Red Sea disruptions are already affecting global trade. If the Strait of Hormuz is impacted, it will be a disaster for countries like India who depend on that route for energy. The international community needs to act decisively to protect shipping lanes.
S
Sarah B
Respectfully, the EU's statement feels like too little, too late. Sanctions haven't worked to change Iran's behavior, and now we're at the brink of a wider war. The priority must be an immediate ceasefire and getting all foreign citizens out safely, including the many Indians working there.
V
Vikram M
India has maintained a balanced position, and that's our strength. We have vital interests with both the Gulf nations and Israel. Our government should continue its independent foreign policy and offer to be a mediator if needed. Jai Hind.
K
Karthik V
The nuclear safety point is critical. A conflict in a region with nuclear ambitions is a nightmare scenario. The world cannot afford another proliferation crisis. Hope our PM and EAM are in touch with all leaders to calm things down.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50