European Countries Unite in Condemning Iran's Attack on US Bases

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] The European Union (EU) and major member states including Germany and the United Kingdom unanimously condemned Iran's attack on U.S. military bases in Iraq on the 8th (local time).

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, the EU's executive branch, said on the day, "Weapons must be stopped immediately to allow room for dialogue," and emphasized, "We must do everything possible to resume talks."

Earlier, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps fired dozens of ballistic missiles at least two U.S. military bases in Iraq, including Ain al-Asad Airbase and Erbil base, around 1:20 a.m.

Josep Borrell, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, who oversees the EU's external policies, also condemned Iran's attack and urged an end to the vicious cycle of violence.

Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, Germany's Minister of Defense, stated in an interview with public broadcaster ARD on the day, "On behalf of the federal government, I strongly condemn this attack in the strongest terms," and appealed to Iran to refrain from further escalating tensions.

Dominic Raab, the United Kingdom's Foreign Secretary, also criticized Iran, calling it a "reckless and dangerous attack." Ann Linde, Sweden's Foreign Minister, said on local radio that day, "Everyone must take a step back, ease tensions, and engage in dialogue."