EU and Saudi Arabia committed to maintaining Middle East stability, says von der Leyen

Moscow (ANTARA) — European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated on Sunday, 1 March, that she has held a telephone conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman focusing on the situation in the Persian Gulf and escalating tensions related to Iran.

“I have just spoken with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia. As our strategic partner, we will work closely with you to de-escalate and maintain regional stability,” von der Leyen said on platform X.

Von der Leyen also expressed the European Union’s full support during these “turbulent times”.

On Saturday, 28 February, the United States and Israel launched joint strikes against several targets in Iranian territory, including Tehran, with reports of casualties and civilian deaths.

Iran’s state television confirmed the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

Iran responded by launching missile attacks against Israeli territory and US military facilities in the Middle East as a defensive measure.