EU Declares Iran Is ‘Not Europe’s War’ Amid Rising Middle East Tensions

Speaking after a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels, Kaja Kallas noted that while the EU is strengthening maritime security, there is little support among member states for extending military mandates.

We have the operation Aspides in the Red Sea. The discussion on whether we are extending this mandate to cover the Strait of Hormuz, to go north from the Muscat line, there was no appetite from the member states to do that.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas

Kaja Kallas emphasized: “Nobody wants to go actively in this war. And of course, everybody is concerned what will be the outcome. This is not Europe’s war, but Europe’s interests are directly at stake.”

She highlighted that around 20% of global oil and gas flows pass through the Strait of Hormuz, along with essential goods such as fertilizers. She warned: “If we don't have fertilizers now this year, we will have a famine next year,” pointing to risks for Asia and Africa.

Turning to regional conflicts, Kaja Kallas expressed concern over Gaza and the West Bank, where progress on peace plans has stalled and violence is increasing. She also highlighted civilian suffering in Lebanon, stating: “Israel’s heavy-handed response has caused mass displacement, and ground invasion will further deteriorate the situation.”

Despite Middle East tensions, Kaja Kallas reiterated that Ukraine remains Europe’s top security priority. She warned that Moscow could benefit from rising energy prices and diverted European military focus.

The EU will maintain sanctions on Russia, even as the U.S. eased restrictions on Russian oil. Kallas stressed: “If we want this war to end, Moscow must have less money for the war, not more.”