Middle East war reverberates in Europe
US-Israel strikes on Iran bring concerns of world order, energy shocks and refugee fears to a continent struggling to respond
What they said
"Firstly, we reject the breach of international law that protects us all, especially the most vulnerable members, the civilian population. Secondly, we must not assume that the world can only solve its problems through conflict and bombs. And finally, we must not repeat the mistakes of the past. In short, the position of the government of Spain can be summed up in four words: no to war (No a la guerra)."
"An endless war is not in our interest. The same applies to a collapse of Iranian statehood or proxy conflicts fought on Iranian soil … Such scenarios could have far-reaching consequences for Europe, including for security, energy supply and migration."
"I think we have to deal with a situation in which the rules of international law have objectively broken down. I don't think they broke down with this episode because there are many precedents, but the situation is certainly one of great chaos."
"We are now seeing a regional conflict with unintended consequences. And the spillover is already a reality today – whether on energy and finance, trade and transport, or the displacement of people … And the longer-term impact is already posing existential questions. On the future of our international rules-based system, or on how Europe finds unity in these situations."
