Germany, France, and the United Kingdom jointly condemned Iranian attacks on countries in the region Saturday, while also clarifying they did not participate in recent U.S. And Israeli strikes within Iran.
The coordinated statement from the leaders of the three European nations urged Iran to refrain from further “indiscriminate military strikes” and called for a resumption of negotiations to de-escalate tensions. The statement, released by the Élysée Palace, reiterated a long-standing demand for Iran to complete its nuclear program and curb its ballistic missile development.
“We condemn Iranian attacks on countries in the region in the strongest terms,” the joint statement read. “Iran must refrain from indiscriminate military strikes. We urge the Iranian leadership to seek a negotiated solution.”
The statement acknowledged the recent military actions taken by the United States and Israel, but notably did not offer direct comment on those strikes. Instead, it emphasized that France, Germany, and the UK were in close contact with international partners, including the U.S. And Israel, as well as regional allies.
The leaders also stressed their commitment to regional stability and the protection of civilian life, and asserted that the Iranian people “must be allowed to determine their future.”
The joint statement follows a period of escalating tensions in the Middle East, with Iran launching attacks on countries in the region. European leaders have consistently urged Iran to address concerns over its nuclear program, ballistic missiles, and destabilizing regional activities, according to the statement. The three nations also condemned what they described as “appalling violence and repression against its own people.”
The leaders’ call for negotiations echoes similar appeals from other international actors following the recent exchange of strikes. However, the prospect of renewed talks remains uncertain, with no immediate indication from Tehran that it is willing to engage.
