NICOSIA: The European Union has indicated that it may consider gradually easing sanctions on Iran if the United States secures a comprehensive deal with Tehran, a move that European leaders believe could help advance the prospects of a permanent ceasefire in the region.
According to the BBC, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz told fellow European leaders that offering sanctions relief in the event of a viable agreement with Iran would be a constructive step. “Easing sanctions could help advance the process toward a permanent ceasefire,” Merz was quoted as saying.
The development comes as European leaders gather for a key summit in Cyprus, joined by the leaders of Egypt, Syria, and Lebanon. The high-level talks are focused on regional security and issues related to Iran’s nuclear program and its broader geopolitical role.
Meanwhile, European Council President Antonio Costa demanded the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz without any restrictions or tariffs, emphasizing its critical importance to global energy supplies. The strait is a major chokepoint for oil and gas shipments worldwide.
Ahead of the summit, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas issued a stark warning. She cautioned that the world could face a more dangerous Iran if ongoing negotiations fail to produce a strong outcome similar to the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Kallas recalled that former US President Donald Trump withdrew from the deal during his first term, a move that many European officials believe triggered the current escalation in tensions..
