Brussels: European Union leaders have underscored the need to uphold freedom of navigation and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, adhering to international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. They emphasized that any agreements concerning the strait must not impede freedom of navigation or alter its legal governance framework.
According to Emirates News Agency, the EU leaders issued these conclusions at the end of their summit held in Brussels on June 18th and 19th. They reaffirmed their commitment to supporting security, stability, and peace in the Middle East, advocating for enhanced diplomatic efforts to address regional crises in compliance with international law and United Nations resolutions.
The European Council acknowledged the memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran as a significant opportunity to bolster regional stability and ensure freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. The Council commended ongoing diplomatic efforts towards a peaceful resolution and recognized the mediation roles of Pakistan, Qatar, and other regional partners.
Regarding Iran, the EU reiterated its opposition to nuclear weapon acquisition by Iran, urging Tehran to comply with nuclear obligations, resume cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency, and halt activities considered destabilizing, such as the ballistic missile program. The Council also called on Iranian authorities to cease violence against citizens, uphold human rights, and implement additional restrictive measures against those responsible for violations.
On the Gaza conflict, European leaders expressed concern over the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza and the West Bank. They urged Israel to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid, reopen border crossings, and enable humanitarian and UN organizations to operate independently. The EU reaffirmed support for a two-state solution for lasting peace, with Israel and Palestine coexisting within secure, recognized borders.
The Council called for implementing relevant UN Security Council resolutions, disarming Hamas and other armed groups, withdrawing Israeli forces, and deploying a temporary international stabilization force. The EU opposed any actions aimed at establishing permanent Israeli control over Gaza territory.
In the West Bank, EU leaders condemned settlement expansion and settler violence against Palestinians, urging Israel to halt settlement activities and comply with international law. The European Council also voiced concerns over the ceasefire violations in Lebanon, urging all parties to seek a political resolution to ensure security and stability for Lebanon and Israel.
The EU condemned Hezbollah's attacks on Israel and called for its disarmament, while urging Israel to respect Lebanon's sovereignty per UN Security Council Resolution 1701. EU leaders reaffirmed support for Lebanese institutions, particularly the Armed Forces, to extend state authority, alongside humanitarian and economic assistance for affected populations.
The European Council highlighted the importance of continued coordination with regional and international partners to reduce tensions and promote security in the Middle East, advocating political and diplomatic solutions as the key to resolving conflicts and achieving sustainable peace in the region.