EU to hold emergency meeting of ministers over Israel-Iran conflict on June 17
In response to the sharp escalation between Israel and Iran, the EU is urgently convening a meeting of foreign ministers to develop joint measures to stabilize the situation in the Middle East.
Photo: Cancillería del Ecuador, CC BY-SA 2.0
The European Union has scheduled an extraordinary video conference of the foreign ministers of member states for June 17. The reason was the sharp escalation between Israel and Iran.
EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas emphasized that the situation in the Middle East poses a serious threat.
According to Radio Free Europe, the meeting will discuss possible steps to reduce tensions and support peaceful solutions. Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen held a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, affirming Israel's right to self-defense and stressing the importance of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
After Israeli strikes on Iranian infrastructure on June 13, Iran responded with a massive missile and drone attack. Iranian sources report dozens killed, while Israel confirmed the deaths of 15 people, including five Ukrainians.
IDF, Telegram
Peace talks between the U.S. and Iran, planned in Oman, collapsed. Donald Trump called on both sides to return to diplomacy.
The United Kingdom also plans to increase its military presence in the Middle East amid hostilities between Israel and Iran. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced preparations for unforeseen scenarios.
Aircraft will be sent to the region, and fighter jets are being readied. London confirms its support for Israel but does not plan to participate in combat operations.