The EU has warned that the Middle East has much to lose from a war and has called for 'moderation'

EUForeign Ministers this Sunday called for restraint following the massive attacks by the US and Israelon Iran, urging them to end the armed conflict between these countries  and to avoid such harmful measures asthe closure ofthe Strait of Hormuz .

'We call formaximum restraint, protection of civilians and full respect for international law, in accordance with the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and international humanitarian law. The Middle East has much to lose in a war, 'the EU Foreign Ministers warned at an extraordinary meeting.

Thus, they have stressed the need to calm a situation of high tension , for which they have expressed their readiness to restore security and stability in the region.

"The European Union will continue tocontribute to all diplomatic initiatives aimed at reducing tension and achieving a lasting solution, including preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, "the EU Foreign Ministers stressed.

The ultimate goal is to resolve an armed conflict that could affect the Middle East, Europe and even "beyond" izan so, which would have "unpredictable consequences even in the economic sphere."

Moreover, EU diplomatic leaders have denounced Iran's attacks on neighbouring countries as "unjustifiable." "Iran must prevent indiscriminate military attacks," they have said, and have expressed solidarity with the countries concerned.

With regard to threats of suspension of movement in the Strait of Hormuz, they have called for "the safety ofthe sea  and respect for freedom of navigation "as the most important issue." Traffic on critical maritime routes such as the Strait of Hormuz must be avoided ", they have stressed.

In addition, ministers recall that the EU has adopted "broad sanctions against Iran for its violent repression, its plans to develop ballistic and nuclear missiles and its support for armed groups in the Middle East."  "Security is an absolute priority," they stress.

"The EU wishes to reiterate its solidarity with the Iranian people and to express its full support for the fundamental aspirations for the future that would respect universal human rights and fundamental freedoms," they added.

Finally, they have expressed their 'intention to continue to protect the security and interests of the EU', albeit with new sanctions, and have stressed that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the security of EU citizens in the Middle East, such as the implementation of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism if necessary.