ALERT: How do European countries respond to the attack on Iran? | International
New information reveals that the following story has emerged from the international scene.
While some European governments show solidarity with Cyprus, many distance themselves from the US-led military actions, citing concerns over international law and sovereignty.
As the joint US-Israeli offensive against Iran enters its sixth day, European nations have found themselves caught between supporting their allies and preserving their own foreign policies. The attack on a British air base in Cyprus has intensified the pressure on European governments, forcing them to clarify their positions on the conflict. While many countries have pledged military aid and reinforced their defensive measures in Cyprus, they have largely distanced themselves from the US offensive, with several leaders arguing that the conflict is not their war.
Spain: A Firm “No to War”
Spain’s stance has been particularly clear. President Pedro Sánchez has firmly opposed any involvement in the US-led attack, declaring “no to war” in an appearance on Wednesday. Spain’s refusal to allow the use of its military bases in Rota (Cádiz) and Morón (Seville) for attacks on Iran signals a stark divergence from the Trump administration’s aggressive approach.
Sánchez made it clear that Spain would not participate in actions that could escalate the conflict, saying, “We are not going to be complicit in something that is bad for the world for fear of retaliation from someone.” This defiant response came after a White House spokesperson claimed that Spain had agreed to “cooperate with the US army,” a statement immediately denied by Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares.
Despite its refusal to participate directly in the offensive, Spain is not remaining passive. The Spanish government has announced the deployment of the frigate Christopher Columbus to the eastern Mediterranean, alongside a French aircraft carrier and Greek naval ships.
“We are not going to be complicit in something that is bad for the world for fear of retaliation from someone,” Sánchez stated firmly.
France: A Cautious Ally
In France, President Emmanuel Macron has positioned himself as the leader of Europe’s defensive response. While expressing solidarity with its allies, Macron has emphasized that the war in Iran is not Europe’s to fight. “This war is not ours, but we have responsibilities with our partners,” Macron said, underscoring the importance of stability in the Mediterranean, the Gulf, and the Middle East.
France has authorized the US military to use its bases for defensive operations but has made it clear that it cannot support the offensive against Iran. “We cannot approve this offensive because it is outside international law,” Macron said, echoing concerns from other European leaders about the legality of the US and Israeli actions.
Additionally, France has pledged its support for Cyprus, sending a frigate and the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier to the region. Macron also used the opportunity to call on Israel not to extend the conflict to Lebanon, urging Iranian leaders to avoid further involvement in the region. He reiterated that France would strengthen its cooperation with the Lebanese Armed Forces as part of its broader strategy to maintain stability.
Italy and Portugal: Military Aid without Active Involvement
Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, has remained largely silent since the onset of the conflict but broke her silence on Thursday, reiterating that Italy is not at war and does not wish to become involved. “We are not at war and we do not want to go to war,” Meloni said, clarifying that the US had not yet requested the use of Italian military bases. Should the US make such a request, it would need parliamentary approval and would be limited to logistical use rather than combat operations.
In line with its cautious approach, Italy has contributed defensive military equipment—such as anti-drone and anti-missile systems—to Gulf nations and deployed naval ships to Cyprus.
Portugal’s stance has been similarly restrained. The Portuguese government has granted the US permission to use the Lajes base in the Azores, but with stringent conditions: the base can only be used for defensive operations, must be proportional, and should target only military objectives. “Portugal is not going to intervene in anything,” said Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel, emphasizing the country’s intention to stay out of the conflict.
The UK and Greece: Defensive Support for Cyprus
The United Kingdom has also taken a cautious approach. Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed the deployment of four Typhoon fighter jets and Wildcar anti-drone helicopters to Cyprus. The UK government has allowed the US to use its military bases in the region for defensive purposes but clarified that no requests for offensive operations had been made.
In Greece, the situation is more direct. Following the attack on the British base, Greece deployed F-16 fighters and frigates to bolster Cyprus’s defense. Additionally, a Patriot missile defense system has been installed on the island of Carpathians as a preventive measure against potential threats.
Germany: Support with Reservations
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has expressed support for the US and Israeli offensive but ruled out any military participation by Germany. Following a meeting with President Trump, Merz confirmed that Germany would send anti-drone defense experts to assist countries attacked by Iran. These experts will help in countering the use of Shahed drones, which are similar to those used by Russia in the conflict in Ukraine.
Mixed Reactions Across Europe
The reactions from other European nations have been varied. Belgium and the Netherlands have expressed understanding for the US-led actions but remain concerned about the long-term consequences. Austria has welcomed diplomatic efforts to open a dialogue with Iran but called for an end to the cycle of violence. Finland has criticized the US for acting outside international legality, aligning with other countries wary of escalating the conflict further.
Hungary and Luxembourg have voiced concerns over the economic impact of the conflict, particularly with rising oil prices, while Cyprus remains at the center of European defensive efforts.
As the conflict in the Middle East continues to unfold, Europe’s role remains complicated. While many countries have pledged support for their allies, they are also walking a fine line in balancing solidarity with caution—aware that the stakes of this conflict extend far beyond the Middle Eas
Analysis and Perspective:
This development could have far-reaching consequences for global politics in the months ahead.
As the situation continues to evolve, analysts are closely watching for further developments.
We encourage our readers to follow this developing story for the latest information.
Source: This article was originally published in another language by Internacional en EL PAÍS and has been translated and adapted for our global English-speaking audience. Read the original article here.