Brussels: Europe and the Arabs

The European Union is closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East and expresses its deep concern over the dangerous escalation that threatens to destabilize the region following the Israeli strikes on Iran and Iran's response. The European Union reaffirms its unwavering commitment to regional security, including the security of the State of Israel, and calls on all parties to abide by international law, exercise restraint, and refrain from any further steps that could lead to serious consequences, such as the possible release of radioactive materials. According to a statement issued in Brussels by the office of EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaya Kallas, the statement also stated, "The European Union has always been clear in its position against Iran acquiring a nuclear weapon and is concerned by the recent report by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), based on which the IAEA Board of Governors concluded that Iran is not complying with its legal obligations related to nuclear safeguards under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. However, lasting security is built through diplomacy, not military action. We believe that diplomacy must prevail. The European Union will continue to contribute to all diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions and finding a lasting solution to the Iranian nuclear issue, which can only be achieved through a negotiated agreement."