EU Expresses Utmost Concern Over Iran Crisis, Calls for Maximum Restraint

(MENAFN) The European Union has voiced deep alarm over the escalating situation in Iran and the wider Middle East, urging all parties involved to avoid further escalation. In a statement released Sunday on behalf of the bloc, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said the EU is monitoring developments “with utmost concern.”

The statement emphasized the need for maximum restraint, the protection of civilians, and strict adherence to international law, including the principles of the United Nations Charter and humanitarian law. It cautioned that the Middle East “stands to lose greatly from any drawn-out war.”

EU officials reiterated their commitment to diplomatic efforts aimed at easing tensions and securing a long-term resolution to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. The bloc stressed the importance of Tehran’s full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency and compliance with its obligations under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement.

Warning of broader repercussions, the statement said the unfolding events in Iran must not lead to a wider regional or international escalation that could affect the Middle East, Europe, and other regions, potentially causing unpredictable consequences, including economic fallout.

It also highlighted the need to prevent disruption to critical maritime routes, specifically noting the Strait of Hormuz.

In response to the rapidly evolving crisis, Kallas convened an emergency video conference of EU foreign ministers on Sunday to discuss the situation in Iran and related regional developments.

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