Brussels: European Council President Antonio Costa on Monday expressed the bloc's persisting concern over the prolonged war in the Middle East amid US and Israeli strikes on Iran. "The EU is gravely concerned over the prolongation of the war and its increasing global impact," Costa wrote on US social media company X, following a phone call with Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. He also wished Pakistan "all the best" for its peace efforts.

According to Anadolu Agency, Costa emphasized the EU's support for all mediation efforts, stating that only dialogue and diplomacy can bring peace and stability back to the Middle East, in full respect of the UN Charter and international law. Sharif noted on X that he had briefed Costa on Pakistan's ongoing mediation efforts. The two leaders agreed that dialogue and diplomacy must prevail in order to restore regional peace and stability.

Regional escalations have been ongoing since Israel and the US launched an offensive against Iran on February 28, resulting in more than 1,340 deaths, including the then-Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran has responded with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military assets, causing casualties and damage to infrastructure while disrupting global markets and aviation.

Costa and Sharif also discussed ways to strengthen Pakistan-EU relations, highlighting the importance of collaboration in fostering regional stability and peace.