"The Middle East conflict, which has persisted for over five weeks, can only be resolved through diplomacy," stated European Council President Antonio Costa.
According to Operative Information Center-OMM, the European Council President emphasized that only a diplomatic path can address the root causes of the ongoing crisis. "After five weeks of war in the Middle East, only a diplomatic solution will eliminate its underlying causes. Any attack on civilian infrastructure, particularly energy facilities, is illegal and unacceptable," he noted.
Costa further detailed his recent communications regarding regional stability, highlighting a specific dialogue with Iranian leadership. "As I emphasized in my recent telephone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, the European Union calls on Iran to immediately cease attacks against regional countries and ensure full freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Escalation will not lead to a ceasefire or peace. This can only be achieved through negotiations, especially the ongoing efforts of regional partners," Costa added.
The European Council, which Costa leads, serves as the institution that defines the general political direction and priorities of the European Union. Amidst rising tensions in the Middle East, the EU has consistently advocated for the protection of global energy supply chains and the de-escalation of hostilities to prevent a wider regional conflagration. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical maritime chokepoint, through which approximately one-fifth of the world's total oil consumption passes daily, making its security a priority for international markets and European energy security.
