No criticism of Trump, warning to Iran: EU leaders take a stand

Iran’s regime condemned – in harsh words

The head of the EU Parliament, Roberta Metsola, is taking a clear stance against this – and clearly against Iran. Without even mentioning the attack by the USA and Israel, the Christian Democrat from Malta is directed against the regime in Tehran and not only blames it for the situation, but also condemns the counterattacks and warns of further ones: Iran’s attacks against Gulf states are “inexcusable and cannot be justified by anything. The regime must refrain from any further escalation.” A few weeks ago, Metsola declared with remarkable clarity that the regime in Tehran was “on its last legs.”

Routine statements

A significantly different tone than that used by the other EU leaders. The developments are “extremely worrying,” Ursula von der Leyen and EU Council President António Costa said in a joint statement. They urged “maximum restraint” and stressed that “ensuring nuclear security and preventing any actions that could further escalate tensions or undermine the global non-proliferation regime are crucial.”

Diplomatic efforts

Kaja Kallas also mentioned that she had already established contacts with decision-makers in the region, such as Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar and several Arab counterparts. Diplomatic solutions are sought. However, it is not to be expected that these will come from Brussels in the current crisis. The EU’s role in the Middle East has traditionally been negligible.