European Leaders Urge Restraint in Response to Increased Tensions: EU Discusses Extending Sanctions on Iran and Recognition of Palestine

The European Union’s (EU) leaders met in Brussels this week, initially to discuss the economy. However, the volatile international situation, particularly the fear of further escalation in the region following Iran’s recent attack on Israel, disrupted these plans. Concern about a rise in violence overshadowed the first day of meetings among the Twenty-seven leaders.

During discussions on extending sanctions against Tehran and calls for restraint from Israel, Germany, one of Israel’s closest allies within the EU, emphasized the importance of de-escalation. Foreign Minister Olaf Scholz highlighted the need for restraint from Israel to avoid exacerbating tensions in the region. Other European leaders echoed similar sentiments, urging all parties to exercise maximum restraint to prevent further conflict.

The EU has condemned Iran’s attack and is considering imposing more restrictive measures against Tehran, particularly regarding unmanned aerial vehicles and missiles. There is also discussion about potentially declaring the Iranian Revolutionary Guard a “terrorist organization,” although this decision is still pending legal analysis. Some EU leaders have openly supported putting the Revolutionary Guard on a sanctions list.

One of the significant topics under discussion at the meeting was Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’s initiative to recognize Palestine as a State. This proposal has support from other EU members like Ireland who view it as a positive step towards a two-state solution. Discussions will continue during