As global tensions rise, European countries are showing unity but their responses differ significantly in tone, priorities and willingness to align with Washington and Israel.
At the institutional level, the European Commission said it would “guarantee the full protection of the European Union’s interests”, stressing that the EU is ready to act, especially through its common trade policy, protecting its economical interest and unity.
In Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron has emphasised political solidarity and leadership. He announced he planned to call Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to express France’s and Europe’s backing in the face of US criticism over him not backing US President Donald Trump’s war on Iran.
Macron’s stance highlights a commitment to a unified European diplomatic front while ordering aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, its air assets and its frigate escort to set sail for the Mediterranean amid the conflict in the Middle East.
Macron added that Rafale fighter jets, air-defence systems and airborne radar systems have been deployed over the past few hours in the Middle East.
Spain, has taken a firm anti‑war position. Sánchez reiterated that his government’s stance can be summed up in three words: “No to war.”
This reflects Spain’s clear rejection of military escalation, even under pressure from the US. His government has refused US requests for military-bases access for operations against Iran, triggering sharp criticism and even trade threats from Washington.
Meanwhile in Berlin, Friedrich Merz, the German Chancellor, met with Trump yesterday at the White House, making him the first foreign leader to visit Washington since the conflict started.
During their talks, Trump publicly praised Germany’s co-operation, especially its decision to allow US forces access to bases, and contrasted Berlin’s stance with the rest of the EU.
Merz said Germany and the US share a desire to see the Iranian regime removed and he also raised concerns about the conflict’s effects on Europe, including economic impacts such as higher energy costs.
He called for a quick end to the war, though, and emphasised that any German military engagement would require parliamentary approval.
