Brussels: Anouar El Anouni, a spokesperson for the European Commission, has cautioned that any military action by the United States against Iran could severely destabilize the West Asian region while expressing support for ongoing negotiations between Tehran and Washington.
According to Islamic Republic News Agency, El Anouni emphasized during a press conference in Brussels that diplomacy is the only sustainable solution to the Iranian nuclear issue. "We are encouraged by the reported progress in diplomatic talks between the United States and Iran, which we fully support," he stated, warning that military escalation could have "heavy repercussions" for regional stability.
Despite not directly addressing the US's role in escalating tensions-specifically, its withdrawal from the JCPOA and subsequent strikes on Iranian nuclear sites last June-the European Commission spokesperson urged all parties to adhere to international law and act responsibly. He reiterated the European Union's commitment to peace, security, and stability in West Asia, without commenting on Europe's silence regarding US and Israeli actions against Iran.
The remarks came amidst a backdrop of increased US military presence in the region, including the deployment of warships and aircraft carriers and issuance of threats, even as talks with Iran continue. The second round of indirect nuclear and sanctions removal discussions between Iran and the US, mediated by Oman, took place in Geneva on February 18. Both sides reported progress, reaching a general agreement on guiding principles for future negotiations.