EU warns of ‘unpredictable consequences’ in Mideast
The 27 countries of the European Union called for “maximum restraint” and full respect for international law in the Iran conflict.
“We call for maximum restraint, the protection of civilians and full respect for international law, including the principles of the United Nations Charter and international humanitarian law,” EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said in a statement.
The statement followed an emergency video conference of EU foreign ministers on Sunday after the US and Israel launched a military attack on Iran and Tehran responded with attacks on Israel, US forces and Gulf states.
The EU statement said, “Iran’s attacks and violations of the sovereignty of many countries in the region are unforgivable. Iran must refrain from indiscriminate military attacks.”
Reflecting concerns about disruptions in oil deliveries and supply chains, the report stated that the conflict “should not lead to an escalation that could threaten the Middle East, Europe and beyond, with unforeseen economic consequences.”
“Disruption of critical waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz should be avoided,” the statement said.
The text was a compromise that reflected divergent views within the EU, a bloc representing about 450 million Europeans, about the military action launched by US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said it was not the time to lecture partners and allies.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Saturday “rejected” the US and Israeli action, saying it “contributes to a more uncertain and hostile international order”.
Behind the scenes, diplomats said that while Europe had great influence on the continent, it had little influence on the emerging conflict.
“I’m afraid there aren’t many options. It’s certainly not short-term,” a Western European official said.
An EU diplomat said Europeans were “just spectators, no one has any influence against Trump”.
