Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – On Tuesday, the European Union welcomed a ceasefire between Israel and Iran that US President Donald Trump had announced, describing it as an “important step” toward bringing stability to a region plagued by escalating tensions.
US President Donald Trump stated early Tuesday that a ceasefire between Israel and Iran is now “in effect.” Earlier, Iranian and Israeli media reported that a ceasefire had started, but there was confusion over the exact terms.
“Europe welcomes the announcement of a ceasefire by President Trump. It’s an important step towards restoring stability in a region in tension. This must be our collective priority,”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated on X.
Von der Leyen also called on Iran to engage “seriously in a credible diplomatic process,” stressing that diplomacy remains the only viable solution to the crisis over Tehran’s nuclear program.
Later, the US launched airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear sites early Sunday, saying they were completely destroyed. In response, Iran fired a barrage of missiles at the US military’s Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar on Monday evening. A ceasefire took effect at 0400 GMT Tuesday, with Trump urging both sides to adhere to it.
What concerns do EU leaders have about escalation?
European leaders have reacted with a mix of caution and concern to the news of the massive US air strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities. However, they all urged Iran to return to the negotiating table, despite Tehran claiming that diplomatic solutions are now off the table.
One day earlier, European foreign ministers urged the U.S. and Iran to use diplomacy as they met in Brussels on Monday.
On the eve of the strikes, European leaders flew to Geneva to meet with Iran’s foreign minister in a final, unsuccessful attempt to ease tensions.
“There needs to be a diplomatic solution,”
Kaja Kallas, the EU’s top diplomat, said ahead of Monday’s meeting.
“Europe has [an important role and always has. When Iran is willing to talk to us, we have to use this opportunity.”
