BRUSSELS — The European Union has issued a forceful appeal for de-escalation and initiated the withdrawal of non-essential personnel following a dangerous escalation of hostilities between Israel and Iran. The urgent call for ‘maximum restraint’ came after a series of reciprocal airstrikes between the nations raised alarm across international capitals.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen characterized the rapidly evolving situation as ‘greatly concerning,’ emphasizing the critical importance of maintaining nuclear safety and upholding the global non-proliferation framework. In a joint statement with European Council President Antonio Costa, von der Leyen stressed that ‘all parties must exercise maximum restraint, protect civilians, and fully respect international law.’
The crisis intensified when Israel and the United States launched targeted strikes against Iranian positions on Saturday, with reports indicating that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was among the intended targets. Iran responded with missile barrages directed toward Gulf states hosting US military installations and toward Israeli territory.
The reverberations of the conflict were felt across the region, with explosions reported in the capital cities of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Residents in Jerusalem also reported hearing blasts overhead as the conflict expanded geographically.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas confirmed the bloc’s consular network is actively facilitating the departure of EU citizens from the region while non-essential personnel are being withdrawn. Kallas noted she has maintained communication with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar and other regional counterparts to coordinate response efforts.
‘The latest developments across the Middle East are perilous,’ Kallas stated via social media. ‘Iran’s regime has killed thousands. Its ballistic missile and nuclear programmes, along with support for terror groups, pose a serious threat to global security.’
The EU’s Aspides naval mission in the Red Sea remains on high alert, prepared to assist in keeping critical maritime corridors open amid the growing instability. EU member state representatives are scheduled to convene for emergency talks in Brussels on Sunday, with Cyprus—holding the rotating EU presidency—confirming the urgent meeting. An additional commission discussion is planned for Monday to address the continuing crisis.