Brussels: Germany, France and the United Kingdom have jointly urged Iran to stop its military actions across the Middle East and return to diplomatic negotiations, warning that continued escalation could push the region toward a wider conflict.
In a joint statement released on Friday, the three European powers strongly condemned recent Iranian missile and drone strikes and called on Tehran to exercise restraint. They stressed that disputes must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy rather than military confrontation.
The statement came amid rising tensions following reported strikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian targets and subsequent retaliatory attacks attributed to Iran in several parts of the region. Western officials say the growing cycle of attacks risks destabilising an already fragile Middle East.
The European leaders said they were not involved in the latest military actions but are closely coordinating with allies. They emphasised the urgent need to restart negotiations, including efforts linked to Iran’s nuclear programme, which has long been a source of international concern.
France has called for an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council, warning that the current escalation could spiral into a broader war if diplomacy fails. European officials also reaffirmed their demand that Iran curb its ballistic missile activities and reduce actions they describe as destabilising to regional security.
Global reactions remain divided. Russia and China have called for restraint and dialogue, while several Western allies continue to stress the need to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Some Middle Eastern countries affected by recent strikes have condemned attacks carried out on their territory.
The joint appeal from Europe reflects growing international concern that continued confrontation could deepen instability, disrupt global energy markets and endanger civilian lives. Diplomats say the coming days will be critical in determining whether the crisis moves toward negotiation or further escalation.