Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated before the EU’s foreign ministers met on Monday that the union is prioritizing a diplomatic solution to the Iran crisis, stressing its importance for the region’s long-term stability.
Foreign ministers from the European Union are gathering in Brussels this morning to discuss the bloc’s stance on Ukraine, Russia, and the escalating crisis in the Middle East.
How is Kaja Kallas urging diplomatic engagement?
High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas raised concerns about the potential for Tehran to retaliate against the recent US strikes and the escalating conflict. She also warned that closing the Strait of Hormuz would be “extremely dangerous.”
She said Iran was open to discussing nuclear safety and broader security issues during ministerial talks with the EU on Friday.
“When Iran is willing to talk to us, we have to use this opportunity,”
She stated, adding that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons and that the European Union could resort to the so-called snapback instrument in the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), also known as the Iran nuclear agreement, to reimpose sanctions if Iran does not concede with the arrangement.
How did EU leaders react to the US airstrikes?
A day earlier, European leaders 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 a return to negotiations, despite Iran saying that diplomatic solutions have been ruled out.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen joined the chorus, stating that “Iran must never acquire the bomb”, but calling for a diplomatic resolution.
“With tensions in the Middle East at a new peak, stability must be the priority. And respect for international law is critical. Now is the moment for Iran to engage in a credible diplomatic solution,”
Von der Leyen wrote, adding:
“The negotiating table is the only place to end this crisis.”
“Iran must not be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon, as it would be a threat to international security,”
Kaja Kallas said.
“I urge all sides to step back, return to the negotiating table and prevent further escalation.”
Moreover, EU Council President Antonio Costa set off a deep alarm with the news coming out of the Middle East, in a post on X.
“I call on all parties to show restraint and respect for international law and nuclear safety,”
The Council president posted, adding:
“Diplomacy remains the only way to bring peace and security to the Middle East region. Too many civilians will once again be the victims of a further escalation.”
