EU demands 'maximum restraint' from all parties after US-Israel strikes on Iran: 'Protect civilians'

BRUSSELS, BELGIUM: The European Union on Saturday, February 28, urged all sides to exercise “maximum restraint” after joint US-Israeli military strikes on Iran led to retaliatory actions targeting American bases in the Middle East.

European leaders described the developments as deeply concerning and announced precautionary steps, including the withdrawal of non-essential personnel from parts of the region.

The coordinated operation marked a significant escalation in tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear and ballistic programs, drawing swift reactions from global powers and regional mediators.

Ursula von der Leyen reaffirms commitment to 'safeguarding regional security'

President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen called the situation “greatly concerning” in a joint statement with Antonio Costa, president of the European Council.

“We reaffirm our steadfast commitment to safeguarding regional security and stability,” they said. “Ensuring nuclear safety and preventing any actions that could further escalate tensions or undermine the global non-proliferation regime is of critical importance.”

The statement added: “We call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint, to protect civilians, and to fully respect international law.”

The EU’s Aspides naval mission in the Red Sea remains “on high alert,” according to the bloc’s top diplomat Kaja Kallas. She said the mission stands ready to help maintain open maritime corridors.

“Our consular network is fully engaged in facilitating departures for EU citizens. Non-essential EU personnel are being withdrawn from the region,” Kallas wrote on social media.

She described the latest developments as “perilous,” citing concerns over Iran’s missile and nuclear programs and their broader impact on global security.

Meanwhile, President Donald Trump said that his objective was stability. “All I want is freedom for the people,” he said. “I want a safe nation, and that's what we're going to have.”

France warns of 'grave consequences' and Russia responds

French President Emmanuel Macron said that the conflict sparked by the joint strikes carried “grave consequences” for international peace and security. “The ongoing escalation is dangerous for all. It must stop,” Macron wrote on social media.

He added that Iran’s leadership must engage in good-faith negotiations to end its nuclear and ballistic programs, calling that “absolutely essential to the security of all in the Middle East.”

France, he said, stands ready to deploy resources to support its regional partners if necessary.

Russia’s Foreign Ministry described the strikes as an “unprovoked act of armed aggression against a sovereign and independent UN member state.”

In a statement, Moscow demanded an immediate halt to it all and accused Washington and Israel of using nuclear concerns as a pretext for broader objectives.

The ministry said Russia had been prepared to help broker a “peaceful resolution” and warned of “an abyss of uncontrolled escalation.”