The European Union called for “maximum restraint” in the Middle East

It was drawn up on behalf of the President of the European Council, António Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen.

“We call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint, protect civilians and fully respect international law,” the document says.

European leaders have declared “serious concerns” in the EU over the crisis, which has affected a number of countries in the Middle East. They stressed that ensuring nuclear security and preventing “any actions that could lead to further escalation of tensions or undermine the global non-proliferation regime” of strategic weapons are critical.

Costa and von der Leyen recalled that the European Union imposed a series of sanctions against Tehran “in response to the actions of the murderous regime” of Iran and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. At the same time, Brussels “consistently promotes diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the nuclear and ballistic programs through negotiations,” the statement noted.

Later, when it became known about the destruction and casualties of Iranian shelling in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and other Gulf countries, the head of the European Commission announced in X that, in connection with the current situation in Iran, she was convening a special meeting of the Security Board on March 2.

“It is critical for regional security and stability that there is no further escalation as a result of Iran's unwarranted attacks on partners in the region,” her post said.