The EU’s top diplomat on Tuesday warned of an “extremely dangerous” situation as tensions escalate between Israel and Iran.
Addressing the European Parliament in Strasbourg, Kaja Kallas urged restraint, respect for international law, and diplomacy to prevent further escalation.
“The short-term impact may hinder Iran’s nuclear ambitions, but Israel may not achieve its ultimate goals this way,” she said.
Kallas reaffirmed the EU’s stance that Iran must never obtain nuclear weapons, calling diplomacy the only sustainable solution.
“Europe stands ready to broker agreements to address the immediate fallout of this conflict,” she added.
Regional tensions have soared since Friday, when Israeli airstrikes hit Iranian military and nuclear sites, prompting Tehran’s retaliatory attacks.
Turning to Gaza, Kallas sharply criticised Israel’s ongoing military campaign, saying it exceeds legitimate self-defence.
“The continuing civilian deaths and targeting of civilian infrastructure cannot be justified under humanitarian or international law,” she stated.
Kallas described the humanitarian situation in Gaza as dire, with only one aid warehouse currently receiving supplies amid ongoing bombardments.
“It is clear that military means will not bring the solace Israelis seek,” she warned. “Hostages remain captive, while Gaza’s population endures unjustified suffering.”
She noted that the EU is reviewing Israel’s compliance with human rights obligations under their Association Agreement.
“The majority of member states support this review, which is now underway,” Kallas confirmed.
She announced that findings will be presented to EU foreign ministers on June 23.