Europe's powerlessness in the Middle East: Trump misses a clear message!

Europe's powerlessness in the Middle East: Trump misses a clear message!

The conflict in the Middle East remains a central issue in international relations, especially for Europe, which is hardly gaining influence in this difficult situation. On Friday, US President Donald Trump made harsh comments about the recent Geneva talks between European foreign ministers and their Iranian counterparts, which he said had "achieved nothing". Trump makes it clear that Iran does not want to communicate with Europe, but only with the USA. As preparations for possible US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities are well underway, Europe's diplomatic role in the matter is once again being called into question. According to Jan Techau of the Eurasia Group, Europe has almost no relevance in Middle East diplomacy and is not consulted by Israel and the US.

The situation is all the more complicated because the EU has tried in the past to position itself as a mediator in the nuclear conflict with Iran. These efforts began with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), but since the US exit in 2018 and the failed payment mechanism INSTEX, Europe has significantly lost influence. Recent developments, including the war that began on June 13, 2025, also make it clear that Europe is neither a driving force nor a mediator in the current crisis.

Differences within the EU

The EU foreign ministers are under pressure to initiate rapid negotiations in view of the escalation in Iran. However, there are significant differences within the Union. Countries such as Poland and Hungary are pro-Israel, while others, such as Ireland and Spain, are critical of the Israeli government. A unified foreign policy that takes into account the different views of the member states is currently not in sight. EU chief diplomat Kaja Kallas emphasizes the need for diplomacy in dealing with Iran's nuclear program, while analysts such as Techau point to the EU's past misinterpretations that led to a misjudgment of the threat posed by a nuclear-armed Iran.

The economic consequences could be significant. Higher oil prices and possible blockages in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz are cited as potential burdens for the European economy. Despite these challenges, the EU could try to regain ground in the regional dialogue with Iran and its Arab neighbors through economic incentives and diplomatic support to ease tensions.

Human rights aspects

As the situation progresses, the human rights situation in Iran becomes another critical point. The EU has repeatedly spoken out against the violent crackdown on protests in Iran, particularly after the death of Mahsa Amini in September 2022. Despite the challenges, the EU High Representative remains committed to advancing the nuclear deal to prevent nuclear proliferation. The EEAS coordinates relations with Iran, even if the EU currently does not have its own delegation in the country.

As discussions about diplomatic solutions continue, the influence of American foreign policy on European strategy is becoming increasingly clear. In this area of ​​tension, Ursula von der Leyen calls for compliance with international law and a diplomatic solution to the conflict. Even if the EU foreign ministers discuss the situation in agreement, a common line often fails due to domestic political circumstances and the different interests of the member states. The EU's next steps remain to be seen as the pressure from current security policy developments increases.