EU Foreign Ministers Convene Emergency Meeting on Iran-Israel Conflict Amid Regional Tensions

In response to escalating tensions following Israeli attacks on Iran, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein and Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi discussed efforts to de-escalate the crisis within political and diplomatic frameworks, with Iran emphasizing its military actions as defensive and rejecting any expansion of the conflict. Meanwhile, the European Union is actively coordinating a diplomatic response, with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas convening an emergency video conference of EU foreign ministers to discuss the Middle East situation, coordinate outreach to Tel Aviv and Tehran, and explore potential next steps for de-escalation. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has also engaged with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, reiterating the EU's commitment to peace and regional stability while underscoring the urgent need for a negotiated resolution to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Additionally, the E3 countries—France, Britain, and Germany—are planning a call with Iran's foreign minister amid ongoing disputes over Iran's nuclear activities, following a U.N. watchdog resolution declaring Iran in breach of non-proliferation obligations. Reports indicate Israel has formally requested military assistance from the U.S. and some EU nations for a potential strike on Iran’s fortified Fordow nuclear site, highlighting the critical stakes of the conflict. Collectively, these diplomatic initiatives by Iraq, the EU, and the E3 reflect intensified international efforts to contain the conflict and address the broader implications for regional and global security.