Serbia has not aligned with three new EU foreign policy decisions on Iran

Serbia stands as the sole candidate country for European Union membership in the Western Balkans that has not aligned itself with three recent EU foreign policy decisions concerning Iran. This divergence places Serbia apart from its regional peers in its approach to EU foreign policy coordination.

The European Union announced that Serbia has not complied with decisions (CFSP) 2026/18501, (CFSP) 2026/18371, and (CFSP)2026/18361, all dated July 24. The first two decisions specifically address matters related to Iran. The third decision pertains to the military support Iran provides to Russia, as well as Tehran's interference with maritime freedom of navigation in the Middle East and its support for armed groups in the region and the Red Sea.

In contrast, all other Western Balkan countries aspiring to EU membership, namely North Macedonia, Montenegro, Albania, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, have successfully aligned their national policies with these new EU directives. The EU acknowledged and welcomed these countries' commitments to ensure their national policies are in accordance with the updated decisions.

This lack of alignment by Serbia raises questions about its commitment to harmonizing its foreign policy with that of the EU, a key aspect of the accession process. While Serbia continues its EU accession negotiations, this instance highlights a specific area where its foreign policy diverges from the bloc's common stance.