Brussels labels Iran missile, drone strikes on Gulf states "unprovoked”

The European Union has strongly condemned what it described as “unprovoked missile and drone strikes” by Iran against neighbouring Gulf states, warning of broader regional risks and calling for immediate de-escalation.

In a statement published on the official website, the European External Action Service (EEAS) said the EU “strongly condemns Iran’s unprovoked missiles and drone strikes against our strategic partners in the Gulf,” expressing solidarity with the United Arab Emirates and Oman, which it said had been affected by the attacks.

“We express our solidarity with the United Arab Emirates and Oman that have been affected by the strikes,” the EEAS said, urging Tehran to halt its operations immediately.

The EU called on Iran to “immediately cease these attacks in blatant violation of international law and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries in the region,” referencing UN Security Council Resolution 2817 and insisting it “must be fully implemented.”

Highlighting the interconnected nature of regional security, the EEAS said stability in Europe and the Gulf is “interlinked,” adding that the EU would continue engaging with regional partners to support de-escalation efforts.

“We are ready to contribute to all diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions and to bring about a lasting solution to end the hostilities, prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon and put an end to its destabilising activities,” the statement added.

By Aghakazim Guliyev