The European Commission president said Thursday that a stable and peaceful Middle East requires respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon, amid ongoing regional tensions, APA reports.
Speaking at a press conference following an EU leaders' meeting in Brussels, Ursula von der Leyen emphasized that developments in Lebanon remain "deeply concerning," underlining that "a stable and sovereign Lebanon" is essential for regional stability.
"It is important that Israel respects both the sovereignty and the territorial integrity of Lebanon," she said, adding that the European Union supports efforts toward de-escalation and long-term stability in the region.
Von der Leyen also addressed broader Mideast developments, praising the interim agreement between the United States and Iran as a "breakthrough" and an important opportunity to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.
"This crisis has underscored an important lesson: We must not allow the global economy to be held hostage. We need to develop other routes and corridors," von der Leyen said, referring to the months-long blockade on the Strait of Hormuz and possible alternate routes.
Von der Leyen added that along these lines the EU will deepen engagement with partners in the Gulf and beyond, adding that the issue will be on the agenda at upcoming meetings with Gulf states.
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