EU must be present in Iran nuclear talks and Lebanon mission, says Spain

Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares has asserted that the European Union must play a significant role in upcoming negotiations concerning Iran's nuclear program and in establishing a mission in Lebanon. Albares made these remarks upon arriving at a Council of Foreign Ministers meeting in Luxembourg.

“

Both in the relief of UNIFIL with a European Union mission, guaranteeing the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon, as well as supporting the two-state solution and the establishment of a Palestinian state, as in the nuclear dossier: yes, the voice of the EU, of course its diplomatic role, not only can, but must be present.

He emphasized that the EU's diplomatic voice is crucial for ensuring Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons, especially following a reported peace agreement between Iran and the United States. Albares also called for an EU mission in Lebanon to succeed the current UN force, aiming to guarantee the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Furthermore, he reiterated the EU's support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

“

The announcement of an agreement for a ceasefire between the United States and Iran is excellent news.

Albares described the announcement of a ceasefire between the US and Iran as "excellent news," underscoring that dialogue and diplomacy can now address all outstanding matters, particularly Iran's civilian nuclear energy use and the prevention of nuclear weapon development. He highlighted the efforts of all mediators, especially Pakistan, and stressed that the agreement should restore freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, paving the way for peace and stability in the Middle East.

“

We are in a very, very incipient phase. We have just received the news.

The US and Iran announced a pact to end their conflict and reopen the Strait of Hormuz after more than 100 days. Spain, Albares assured, will continue to support the ceasefire and mediation efforts. However, he cautioned that the situation is in its "very, very incipient phase" and urged a step-by-step approach. Albares plans to propose a robust EU mission to replace the UN force in Lebanon, believing the EU can play a "fundamental role" there, just as it did previously in facilitating an agreement on Iran's nuclear program.

“

One of the things I am going to propose today at the meeting is that there be a strong, robust European Union mission that can take over from UNIFIL.