The Socialists and Democrats (S&D) Group in the European Parliament on Thursday urged EU leaders to exert “maximum diplomatic pressure” on the United States and Israel to ensure compliance with international law, urging a suspension of the bloc’s association agreement with Tel Aviv.
The group urged a stronger and more assertive European response to the escalating tensions in the Middle East in a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Antonio Costa and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas.
“This is a crisis of both geopolitics and affordability. It demands immediate political action at the European level. In this context, the Commission and the European Council must exercise maximum diplomatic pressure on both (US President Donald) Trump and (Israel Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu to uphold international law without ambiguity or double standards,” the letter said.
“While we welcome the ceasefire brokered under the auspices of Pakistan, we note with concern that attacks by Israeli armed forces against civilians and infrastructure in Lebanon have not ceased,” it added.
The group stressed that the European Union “cannot remain a bystander” amid growing instability, calling for urgent action to de-escalate the situation and protect civilians.
Among the group’s key demands is a suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement and imposition of sanctions on Israel, citing continued attacks in Lebanon and the Gaza Strip, as well as the reintroduction of the death penalty for Palestinian prisoners.
It also urged the bloc to intensify diplomatic efforts, support international judicial mechanisms and expand humanitarian assistance to affected populations in coordination with UN agencies.
“A strong, proactive diplomatic stance is urgently needed for the people of Iran, the wider region, and European citizens alike,” according to the letter.
Iran and the US announced a two-week ceasefire Tuesday, mediated by Pakistan, aimed at paving the way for a final agreement to end the war launched by Washington and Israel against Tehran on Feb. 28. The armed conflict has left thousands dead and wounded in Iran.