Nicosia: It's too early for a discussion on Iran sanctions relief, President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, noted, responding to a question on the subject, during a press conference in Nicosia following an informal EU heads of state meeting. The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, explained that sanctions relief could come as a result of a change in the reasons that led the EU institutions to enforce the sanctions.
According to Cyprus News Agency, von der Leyen stated that sanctions relief should be conditional on verification of de-escalation, particularly on progress of the international effort to contain Iran's nuclear threat, and on a change to the repression of its own people. She emphasized that these were the reasons why the sanctions regime was adopted initially.
Costa referred to a meeting last summer with Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian in New York, stating, "we tried until the last minute to avoid the snapback of the sanctions, but unfortunately Iran didn't deliver on what they need to ensure the international community that they don't ever have a nuclear weapon." He also highlighted the regime's nature and the violence against their people, expressing the view that it is too early to discuss any kind of sanctions.
Costa noted the core issues beyond the nuclear threat, including ballistic missiles and the end of support for Iran's proxies, which destabilize the region and threaten Europe. He described recent ceasefires between the United States and Iran, as well as between Israel and Lebanon, as positive developments.
He emphasized that all parties must engage in good faith to achieve peace, with the European Union playing a part in the solution by upholding international law. He also pointed out the priorities of restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and working toward a stable and lasting ceasefire, with a coalition of more than 50 countries, led by France, preparing a defensive mission when conditions allow.
President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, also addressed the situation in the Middle East, highlighting the EU's response for de-escalation and safeguarding freedom of navigation. He stressed that developments in the region are vital for the EU, as disruptions in maritime routes and freedom of navigation have economic impacts on European households.
Christodoulides underlined that de-escalation in Iran and the region cannot be achieved without the active participation of the European Union, emphasizing the EU's tools and means to safeguard a permanent escalation. He noted that Nicosia, as the last divided capital of Europe, serves as a mirror of challenges and successes, reinforcing the conviction for further European integration.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third.