EU summit expresses concerns over escalating tensions in Middle East

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
28 Jun 2024 12:27

The European Union summit in Brussels underscores the importance of upholding the International Court of Justice's rulings, stressing their binding nature.

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European leaders met at their headquarters in Brussels (AFP)

The European Union summit held in Brussels emphasized in its statement the importance of respecting and implementing the rulings of the International Court of Justice, which are legally binding.

The EU reaffirmed the necessity of the services provided by UNRWA in Gaza and across the region, condemning any attempt to classify a UN agency as a "terrorist organization".

In another context, the EU condemned what it termed as "any threat directed against member states of the European Union," specifically referencing Cyprus and the warning issued by Hezbollah's Secretary General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah regarding the use of the Island's facilities to carry out aggression on Lebanon.

The European Union urged the Council, the Commission, and the High Representative for Foreign Affairs to advance efforts to enhance EU support for Lebanon, including the Lebanese Armed Forces and UNIFIL.

The EU also expressed concern over escalating tensions in the region, particularly along the Blue Line between Lebanon and occupied territories, urging all parties to exercise restraint to prevent further escalation.

Von der Leyen reappointed for the second EU term

Earlier today, European Union leaders, meeting in Brussels, have nominated Ursula von der Leyen for a second term as head of the European Commission.

Kaja Kallas, Estonia's prime minister, has been selected as the EU's new foreign policy chief following a late-night agreement on top leadership positions. Despite opposition from Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, former Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa was appointed to lead the European Council under the agreed deal.

The vote, expected to be close following a recent increase in support for far-right parties in this month's elections, is scheduled for July.

During the summit, EU leaders also finalized a security agreement with Ukraine and discussed strategies to strengthen the bloc's defenses against Russia while setting their strategic priorities for the next five years.