Trending 
The European Union on Saturday voiced alarm over the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, urging both sides to show restraint and warning of the potential for grave consequences, including a radioactive leak.
The EU’s statement came as Israeli forces launched fresh strikes on Iran’s air defence systems following an earlier wave of attacks on Iranian nuclear and military sites. Iran responded with retaliatory strikes on Israeli cities.
In a statement issued by the office of EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, the bloc expressed “deepest concern at the dangerous escalation that threatens to destabilise the Middle East,” and urged all parties to respect international law and avoid further actions that could lead to a “potential radioactive release.”
While reaffirming its support for regional stability and “the security of the State of Israel,” the EU also stressed that “lasting security is built through diplomacy, not military action.”
Israel has defended its offensive as part of an effort to dismantle Iran’s nuclear capabilities, which it claims are intended for weapons development—a charge Tehran has consistently denied.
Brussels also cited a recent International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) report that found Iran in “non-compliance” with its nuclear obligations, reinforcing the EU’s stance that Iran must never be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.
Despite the severity of the situation, the EU insisted that diplomatic engagement remains the only viable path to peace.
