European and British leaders condemn Iranian strikes on UAE

On May 5, 2026, European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed solidarity with the United Arab Emirates following missile and drone strikes conducted by Iran. These strikes represent the first military escalation since the ceasefire agreement implemented last month. Both EU leaders condemned the actions as violations of national sovereignty and international law, urging Iran to return to diplomatic negotiations. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also condemned the attacks and called for a diplomatic resolution to stabilize the region. While EU officials focused on the breach of sovereignty, reports also suggest a call for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. No immediate details regarding casualties or structural damage were provided in the initial reports. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely to prevent further escalation in the Middle East.