EU warns Iran escalation blocks ceasefire and peace talks

European Council President Antonio Costa on Monday said rising tensions involving Iran risk undermining prospects for a ceasefire, emphasizing that negotiations remain the only effective route to peace in the Middle East. His remarks come amid ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States, with regional security and energy routes increasingly under threat.

Diplomacy highlighted as only path forward

Costa underlined that military escalation cannot resolve the crisis, pointing instead to diplomatic engagement led by regional actors. He stated that addressing the underlying causes of conflict in the Middle East requires sustained dialogue rather than continued confrontation. His comments reflect growing international concern over the widening scope of the conflict.

Warning over attacks on civilian infrastructure

The EU official also condemned strikes on non-military targets, particularly energy infrastructure, describing such actions as violations of international law. He noted that similar standards apply across conflicts, including Russia’s war in Ukraine, reinforcing the EU’s position on protecting civilian assets during wartime.

Call for restraint and maritime security

Costa revealed that in a recent conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, the European Union urged Tehran to immediately halt its attacks in the region. He also called for restoring safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy corridor that directly impacts supply routes reaching markets including Türkiye.

Rising regional tensions and global impact

Tensions have surged since a joint US-Israel military campaign against Iran began in late February, triggering retaliatory drone and missile strikes by Tehran across the region. The escalation has led to casualties, infrastructure damage and disruptions in global energy markets and aviation, increasing pressure on international actors to prevent further destabilization.