Once fierce advocates of military action against Tehran, Gulf countries now call for restraint and diplomacy. No longer viewing Trump as a partner; they now fear the US may be more liability than protection
The 12-day war between Israel and Iran could have serious implications across the Middle East, not least by exacerbating ongoing tensions between Turkey and Israel. Europeans need to reassure Ankara that they are focused on regional stability—and take Turkey’s defence concerns seriously
ECFR Council members urge European governments to pull every available lever to prevent escalation in the Middle East
Israel has become the Middle East’s leading destabiliser, threatening key European interests. Europe must avoid making the same mistakes that led to the 2003 Iraq invasion, prioritise diplomacy and urge the US not to get entangled in a war with Iran
As Europeans focus on Israel’s intensifying conflict with Iran, the country is continuing its expansionist project in the West Bank, jeopardising any remaining chance for a two-state solution
Israel’s unprecedented strikes across Iran have shattered nuclear diplomacy and paved the way for regional war. As America scrambles to respond, Europeans can help curb dangerous escalation
Once a beacon of progressive hope, Tunisia’s economy teeters on the brink and its president jails opponents and scapegoats migrants. European governments have the tools to support Tunisian reform and resilience if they can look beyond short-term migration management
Europe’s sidelined diplomats watch as Trump’s team tussles over Iran’s nuclear fate. With “snapback” sanctions looming, Britain, France and Germany must hustle to shape a deal or risk being mere spectators
The United States has now ended its campaign of airstrikes against Yemen’s Houthi movement, having achieved little military success and instead playing into Houthi attempts to consolidate domestic control
Israel has refused to implement the second phase of its ceasefire agreement with Hamas and launched a new wave of attacks against Gaza, with US backing. Europeans need to respond with sanctions and diplomatic action