Convening in Brussels for a two-day summit commencing on Wednesday, European Union (EU) leaders are set to deliberate on the economic trajectory of the EU, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran.
Prior to the summit, European Council President Charles Michel emphasized the importance of EU solidarity in advocating for all parties to exercise restraint, adhere to international law, and refrain from actions that could exacerbate tensions.
Michel noted that discussions on the EU’s economic competitiveness had been overshadowed by recent events in the Middle East, necessitating a strategic rethink.
Recent history saw Iran launching direct attacks on Israel last Saturday, marking a significant escalation in hostilities from the Islamic Republic.
In response to the attacks, purportedly in retaliation for the deaths of high-ranking Iranian officials in Syria earlier in the month, EU leaders will explore avenues for de-escalating the conflict in the region.
Furthermore, the summit agenda includes deliberations on the broader implications of Middle East turmoil on Lebanon and the EU’s diplomatic interactions with Turkey.