France, UK, Germany, and Italy Welcome US-Iran Accord, Prioritize Reopening Strait of Hormuz

On Sunday evening, the leaders of France, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy expressed their approval of the memorandum of understanding reached between the United States and Iran. They described the agreement as a significant diplomatic step that could open a pathway to restoring regional stability and revitalizing the global economy.

In a joint statement, the leaders referred to this development as a "moment of opportunity" to enhance regional stability. They commended the roles played by the United States and Iran, along with international mediators including Pakistan and Qatar, in achieving this diplomatic breakthrough.

The European leaders emphasized the importance of promptly advancing to the next phase by completing technical negotiations and implementing the agreement "quickly and comprehensively." They affirmed their readiness to support these efforts to ensure tangible outcomes on the ground.

The statement highlighted that the actual implementation of the agreement's provisions will serve as a crucial test of the parties' seriousness, especially given the need to consolidate de-escalation and manage the repercussions of recent regional tensions.

Priority on Reopening the Strait of Hormuz

One of the key points in the statement was the leaders' assertion that the urgent reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is a top priority. They stressed the necessity of guaranteeing "unconditional and unrestricted freedom of navigation" through the strait.

The four countries indicated their willingness to contribute to this process, including through deploying an independent defensive mission with a purely defensive character. This mission aims to reassure commercial shipping movements and assist in mine clearance, thereby ensuring the resumption of global trade flows, particularly energy exports.

Firm Stance on Iran's Nuclear Program

The four nations reaffirmed their firm position regarding Iran's nuclear program, categorically stating that "Iran must not possess nuclear weapons."

They also expressed their readiness to collaborate with the United States, Iran, and the International Atomic Energy Agency to ensure Tehran's compliance with its commitments. The statement noted that sanctions related to the nuclear file could be lifted if Iran takes clear and verifiable steps in this direction.

Efforts Toward a Comprehensive Diplomatic Settlement

The statement confirmed that the leaders will work intensively with the United States, Iran, and regional partners to capitalize on the current momentum and advance toward a long-term comprehensive diplomatic settlement. The goal is to secure regional stability and reduce the risks of future escalation.

In closing, the European leaders reiterated their full support for Lebanon's stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. They underscored the importance of reaching a "strong ceasefire" to help ease tensions within the Lebanese arena.