EU leaders have pledged to deepen cooperation with Middle Eastern partners and support diplomatic efforts to stabilise the Iran conflict, following talks in Nicosia on the sidelines of an EU summit.
European Council President António Costa said Europe’s security is “closely linked” to the Middle East, highlighting growing interdependence in defence, energy, and regional stability.
Although no formal decisions were reached, discussions focused on ceasefires, regional security, and economic disruption linked to the Strait of Hormuz crisis.
- António Costa welcomed extended ceasefires involving the US, Iran, and Israel–Lebanon, urging “good faith” negotiations.
- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned EU fossil fuel import costs have risen by over €25 billion since the conflict began.
- Around 20% of global oil trade remains affected by the Hormuz disruption, driving energy price volatility.
- EU leaders discussed expanding maritime security missions and strengthening defence cooperation with regional partners.
Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa emphasised EU ties as “essential” for supply chain stability, while calling for international accountability over regional tensions.
ℹ️ Euronews
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