The European Union (EU) has activated its civil defense mechanism to assist member states in evacuating their citizens from the escalating conflict in the Middle East, as the Israel-Iran war enters its fifth day.
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In a video conference held earlier today with the foreign ministers of its 27 member states, the EU’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, remarked, “We have member states that are sending planes to evacuate citizens, while others may not have that capacity. We are working together to ensure the safety of our citizens.”
Tánaiste Simon Harris, who also took part in the discussions, noted that a small number of Irish citizens in Tel Aviv and Tehran expressed their interest in evacuation if the opportunity arises. He confirmed that he has been in contact with the Irish embassies in both countries, where there are approximately 30 registered citizens in Iran and 200 in Israel.
“With the talks between Iran and the U.S. surrounding the nuclear program at a standstill, it has become evident that the European Union, and Europe as a whole, has a vital role to play,” Kallas added.
“The European Union is committed to contributing to a diplomatic resolution. We are in active communication with both Iran and Israel to de-escalate the rising tensions, as the stability of the region is a concern for us all.”
Kallas expressed concern about the conflict’s potential to spill over into other areas. “This is why we are engaging with regional partners, who are understandably anxious about the ramifications and escalating tensions. We are prepared to collaborate with them,” she stated.
There was a clear consensus among the 27 EU foreign ministers that Iran must not be permitted to develop a nuclear weapon. Kallas acknowledged, however, that perspectives on Iran’s right to pursue a nuclear program for civilian purposes differ from those of the United States.
“All parties are called upon to adhere to international law, exercise restraint, and avoid provocations that could lead to further escalation. We are united in recognizing the urgent need for de-escalation. A nuclear-armed Iran is unacceptable, and diplomacy remains our best avenue for prevention,” she emphasized.
Kallas also cautioned against U.S. involvement in the conflict, stating, “Should the United States decide to engage directly, it would undoubtedly drag the region into a broader conflict, something that serves no one’s interests. During my conversation with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, he reinforced that it is also against their interests to become entangled in this situation.”
By fostering dialogue and collaboration, we can contribute to a peaceful resolution in a time of heightened tensions.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
