Kallas: Middle East stuck in dangerous cycle of attacks, retaliatory strikes and fragile ceasefires

EU top diplomat condemns Iranian strikes on shipping

European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas wrote on social media platform X that the broader Middle East is trapped in a dangerous cycle of attacks, retaliatory strikes, and fragile ceasefire agreements. She condemned Iran's strikes against commercial shipping, stating they violate international law and the Memorandum of Understanding.

Cooperation with Gulf states

According to Kallas, the EU's partners in the Gulf states play a crucial role in ensuring regional stability. She noted that it was important that representatives of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) joined the EU this week.

Kallas recalled that the EU seeks to deepen relations with Gulf countries. Last night, the EU and Bahrain launched negotiations on a new strategic partnership agreement.

Protecting freedom of navigation

The High Representative said that together with GCC partners, they discussed the latest developments and how to protect freedom of navigation in both the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea.