The EU has strongly condemned Iranian aggression and pledged full support to regional partners, calling on Tehran to end its nuclear and missile programmes while mobilising humanitarian aid for Lebanon.
BRUSSELS: The European Union has renewed its condemnation of Iranian aggression, reaffirming solidarity with neighbouring states and warning of the growing threat posed to regional security and global energy stability.
In a joint statement, European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen convened a video conference on March 8, 2026 with officials from the UAE, Jordan, Egypt, Bahrain, Lebanon, Syria, Turkey, Armenia, Iraq, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Oman to discuss the escalating situation in Iran and its wider impact on the Middle East.
Both leaders expressed gratitude to regional partners for their support in repatriating tens of thousands of European citizens stranded since hostilities began, and reaffirmed the EU’s commitment as a long-term partner in de-escalating the crisis and restoring diplomatic dialogue.
The joint statement renewed the EU’s call for Tehran to end its nuclear programme and restrict its missile capabilities, while simultaneously denouncing the repression and violence exercised by the Iranian regime against its own citizens. The condemnation of Iranian aggression extended to attacks on critical infrastructure and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which participants agreed posed serious risks to global energy supply chains.
The EU underlined its commitment to protecting civilians and upholding international humanitarian law, citing its “Aspides” and “Atalanta” maritime operations as vital to securing key shipping corridors. Leaders signalled readiness to strengthen these efforts as the situation develops.
Deep concern was also expressed over the humanitarian deterioration in Lebanon. European Commission President von der Leyen announced the mobilisation of “RescEU” stockpiles to provide aid to approximately 130,000 people, with the first relief airbridge set to depart the following day.
The conference concluded with a commitment to continued coordination between the EU and regional partners in pursuit of lasting peace and stability across the Middle East and Gulf.
