On Tuesday, High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell met with the Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Abbas Araghchi, for a bilateral meeting in New York in the margins of the UN General Assembly.
The meeting provided an opportunity to share the EU’s position on various problematic issues, focusing on Iran’s military support to Russia and the pressing regional crisis. High Representative Borrell stressed the EU’s strong condemnation of the recent transfer of Iranian-made ballistic missiles to Russia. He underlined to Minister Araghchi that the EU considers the delivery of such weapons a direct threat to European security and that it represents a substantial material escalation. This comes after the provision of Iranian UAVs and ammunition, which Russia has used in its illegal attacks on civilian targets in Ukraine.
Regarding the situation in the Middle East, the High Representative emphasised the urgent need to address the risk of full military escalation, which could have devastating consequences for the entire region. The European Union is committed to supporting the voices of peace and reason to the best of its ability. The High Representative urged Iran to use its influence to prevent further escalation. He emphasised that a ceasefire and a hostage deal should be the top priorities, aimed at improving the situation for civilians in Gaza and easing tensions.
The High Representative highlighted the importance of human rights and freedom and urged the Iranian authorities to respect the rights of all citizens and cease arbitrary detentions.
He also stressed the importance of renewed nuclear diplomacy and expressed readiness to facilitate a diplomatic solution. Both sides acknowledged the importance of dialogue in addressing current challenges.
“Useful talks with EU High Rep @JosepBorrellF on range of issues of mutual interest/concern—incl nuclear talks, dangerous situation in Middle East caused by Israeli aggression against Lebanon, Ukraine, and need to avoid double standard on human rights,” Minister Abbas Araghchi posted on X.
“Urged EU to stop certain members from supporting Israeli regime and instead adopt unified European position to stop Israel escalation in region,” he wrote.
