BRUSSELS — European Union foreign ministers convened an emergency virtual summit Saturday afternoon, responding to Israeli airstrikes on Iranian military facilities near Qom. The extraordinary meeting, chaired by EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, aims to forge a unified European response and prevent the escalating conflict from spiraling into a full-scale regional war.
"We are witnessing a dangerous and destabilizing escalation that threatens international peace and security," Borrell said in opening remarks. "The EU calls on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and refrain from further military action. There is no military solution to this conflict."
Divided responses among member states
While all 27 members condemned the rising violence, differences emerged over how to address the crisis. France and Germany pushed for direct diplomatic engagement with Tehran, urging a renewed nuclear diplomacy track. "We must keep channels open," French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna said. "Isolation will only fuel further aggression."
However, some Eastern European members, including Poland and the Baltic states, aligned more closely with the US position, emphasizing Israel's right to self-defense against Iranian proxies. "Iran's destabilizing activities across the Middle East cannot be ignored," a Polish diplomat told reporters.
Potential sanctions and diplomatic initiatives
Sources inside the meeting told SKY Today that the EU is considering several measures:
- 🔹 Renewed push for a ceasefire and de-escalation roadmap
- 🔹 Targeted sanctions against individuals involved in the recent military actions
- 🔹 Appointment of a special EU envoy to shuttle between Tel Aviv and Tehran
- 🔹 Emergency funding for humanitarian corridors in the region
The EU also announced that it would convene an extraordinary meeting of the Joint Commission of the Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA) next week, despite the agreement's fragile state. "Diplomacy remains the only viable path," Borrell stressed.
Global diplomatic reaction
• United Nations: Secretary-General António Guterres called for "immediate de-escalation" and offered UN mediation.
• China: Urged restraint and called for respect for sovereignty and non-interference.
• Russia: Expressed "serious concern" and offered to facilitate talks.
• Gulf States: Saudi Arabia and UAE called for calm but avoided direct criticism of either side.
What happens next?
The emergency meeting is expected to continue into Saturday evening. EU leaders will also hold a video conference on Sunday to coordinate further steps. Meanwhile, European embassies in Tel Aviv and Tehran remain on high alert, and contingency plans for evacuations are being reviewed.
"We are in a critical 48-hour window," a senior EU official said on condition of anonymity. "If Iran retaliates significantly, containment becomes much harder. Our message to both capitals is clear: step back from the brink."
This story is developing. Follow SKY Today for continuous updates on diplomatic efforts.