U.S.-Iran war: Which side is Europe supporting?

As Israel and the U.S. intensify military operations against Iran, European countries have not yet taken a clear stance on the conflict. While the European Union and the United Kingdom have called for respect for international law and criticized the Ayatollah regime in Iran, they have not formed a unified position on the war, reports DW.com.

Experts say Europe is currently following a defensive strategy, avoiding direct military involvement. However, an Iranian drone attack on a British military base in Cyprus raised concerns in Europe. Following this, Italy, Greece, France, and the Netherlands sent naval forces to Cyprus.

Cornelius Adebahr, an expert at Germany’s German Council on Foreign Relations, noted that if Iran attacks a European country, EU states are prepared to take defensive measures. However, within Europe, opinions vary on fully supporting the U.S. operation against Iran.

Despite this, no European country is expected to actively participate in the war or take a direct role alongside the U.S. and Israel. Still, the U.K., Germany, and France have allowed the U.S. military to use certain bases under specific limitations.

Experts see these decisions as a compromise influenced by U.S. pressure. The war could also have economic effects on Europe, including rising energy prices and a potential increase in refugee flows.

EU foreign policy representative Kaja Kallas stated that migration pressures are not yet observed but warned that if the conflict continues, Europe must be prepared for new challenges.