Brussels: EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, stressed on Tuesday that there is no alternative to diplomacy to de-escalate tensions between Iran and the Israeli occupation. Kallas made the statement during a press conference following an emergency video meeting with the foreign ministers of the EU's 27 member states to discuss developments in the Middle East in light of the recent escalation between Iran and the Israeli occupation.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the EU foreign ministers called on all parties to abide by international law, exercise restraint, and avoid any escalation that could spiral out of control. "We agreed that a diplomatic solution is the best way to address Iran's nuclear program in the long term, and we will continue to play our part in this process." She added that "as long as talks between Iran and the United States remain stalled, Europe has a stronger voice," noting that she held talks on Monday with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and several of her European counterparts.
Kallas confirmed that European countries are coordinating efforts to evacuate citizens wishing to leave the region, saying, "We have member states operating flights, and we are working together to ensure the safety of our citizens." Regarding the potential US role, the EU's top diplomat indicated that she had received assurances from her American counterpart, Marco Rubio, that the United States "is not seeking to participate in Israeli attacks on Iran," emphasizing that "this is in no one's interest." In a related context, Kallas confirmed that the ministers clearly agreed not to lose focus on what is happening in Gaza, adding, "Again we call for immediate and full access of humanitarian aid, a ceasefire, and the release of hostages." She clarified that EU foreign ministers will continue to discuss this issue during the next Foreign Affairs Council meeting scheduled for Monday 23 June.