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The European Union’s 27 member states have called for “maximum restraint” and strict adherence to international law following the escalating Iran conflict involving the United States and Israel. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas issued a joint statement on behalf of the bloc after an emergency video conference of EU foreign ministers on Sunday.
The emergency talks were convened after U.S. and Israeli military strikes targeted Iran, prompting Tehran to retaliate with attacks on Israel, U.S. forces, and Gulf countries. In the official EU statement, Kallas emphasized the need to protect civilians and uphold the principles of the United Nations Charter and international humanitarian law. The statement described Iran’s attacks and violations of regional sovereignty as “inexcusable” and urged Tehran to avoid indiscriminate military strikes.
Beyond security concerns, the European Union also highlighted the potential economic consequences of further escalation in the Middle East. Officials warned that continued hostilities could threaten not only regional stability but also Europe and global markets. Particular concern was raised over the possible disruption of critical waterways, including the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil shipments. Any blockage or instability in this strategic passage could severely impact oil deliveries, energy prices, and international supply chains.
The EU’s position reflects internal divisions within the bloc regarding the military actions led by U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz suggested that now is not the time to criticize allies, while Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez openly rejected the U.S. and Israeli strikes, arguing they contribute to a more unstable global order.
Diplats acknowledged that Europe currently has limited influence over developments in the Iran crisis. Several officials privately admitted the EU has few short-term options and limited leverage, particularly with Washington. Despite being home to 450 million citizens, the European Union appears largely sidelined as tensions in the Middle East continue to rise, raising serious geopolitical and economic concerns worldwide.
