Brussels: A prolonged conflict in the Middle East would have far-reaching consequences not only for the region but also for Europe and the wider world, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warned on Monday. Speaking at the EU Ambassadors' Conference in Brussels, Kallas called on all parties involved in the escalating regional tensions to exercise restraint and uphold international law.

According to Anadolu Agency, Kallas emphasized that the Middle East, Europe, and the global community all stand to lose greatly from any drawn-out war. She reiterated the European Union's call for all involved parties to exercise maximum restraint, protect civilians, and respect international law. Kallas highlighted the region's new phase of uncertainty following the latest escalation, as US-Israel attacks on Iran continue, warning that further conflict could deepen instability and humanitarian suffering.

Kallas accused Iran of fueling regional instability, stating that Tehran has been responsible for decades of violence in the region. Despite Iran's limited military capabilities, Kallas noted the uncertainty surrounding the conflict's potential trajectory. The EU has already activated its civil protection mechanism and organized evacuation flights for European citizens in response to the situation. EU naval operations are also providing protection for shipping routes, and the bloc is preparing additional initiatives to strengthen regional security cooperation.

Beyond the Middle East, Kallas pointed out that the erosion of international law is increasingly influencing global crises, using Russia's war against Ukraine as an example. She mentioned that the EU has provided £195 billion in support to Ukraine since 2022, making the bloc Kyiv's largest backer. Kallas emphasized that defending international law remains central to European foreign policy, warning that failure to do so could lead to further instability worldwide.