Brussels: The Socialists and Democrats (S and D) Group in the European Parliament has called on EU leaders to apply “maximum diplomatic pressure” on the United States and Israel to ensure adherence to international law, advocating for a suspension of the European Union’s association agreement with Tel Aviv.

According to Anadolu Agency, the S and D Group issued a letter addressed to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Antonio Costa, and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. In the letter, the group emphasized the need for a stronger European response to the escalating Middle East tensions. The letter described the situation as a crisis of “both geopolitics and affordability” and urged immediate political action at the European level.

The group highlighted the necessity for the European Commission and the European Council to exert diplomatic pressure on US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The goal, they stated, is to ensure compliance with international law without ambiguity or double standards. While acknowledging the ceasefire brokered by Pakistan, the group expressed concern over ongoing attacks by Israeli armed forces in Lebanon.

Describing the European Union’s role, the group insisted that the EU “cannot remain a bystander” in the face of growing instability. They called for urgent action to de-escalate the situation and protect civilians. Among their demands were the suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement and the imposition of sanctions on Israel due to continued attacks in Lebanon and the Gaza Strip, along with the reintroduction of the death penalty for Palestinian prisoners.

The group also urged the EU to intensify diplomatic efforts, support international judicial mechanisms, and expand humanitarian assistance to affected populations in coordination with UN agencies. They stressed the need for a “strong, proactive diplomatic stance” to benefit the people of Iran, the wider region, and European citizens.

This call to action follows the announcement of a two-week ceasefire between Iran and the US, mediated by Pakistan, which aims to pave the way for a final agreement to end the conflict initiated by Washington and Israel against Tehran on February 28. The ongoing armed conflict has resulted in thousands of casualties in Iran.