The impact of the ongoing Middle East conflict involving Iran is now being felt across Europe, according to Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.
Speaking ahead of a key meeting with Middle Eastern leaders, von der Leyen warned that the ripple effects of the war are already affecting European security, energy markets and regional stability.
Addressing the annual conference of European Union diplomats in Brussels, she said the international community is witnessing the unintended consequences of a regional conflict that is rapidly expanding.
“We are now seeing the spillover effects of a regional war. The spread of this conflict has become a harsh reality,” she said.
Von der Leyen noted that European citizens and partners have already been affected by the escalation. As an example, she referred to a drone strike reportedly carried out with Iranian-made drones on a British military base in Cyprus, an EU member state.
She also warned that the conflict is disrupting global trade routes and contributing to rising oil prices, which could further strain economies across Europe.
According to the EU chief, the long-term consequences of the war could challenge the future of the rules-based international order and raise what she described as an “existential question” for the 27-nation European bloc.
Von der Leyen emphasized that Europe cannot afford to retreat from global engagement despite the growing instability.
“To think that we can simply withdraw or step back from this chaotic world would be a serious mistake,” she said.
