EU foreign policy chief stresses need for Palestinian-led process for regional stability

The European Union's foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas on Tuesday emphasized that a Palestinian-owned and Palestinian-led political process is essential to achieving lasting stability in the Middle East.

Ahead of a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg, Kallas said the recent diplomatic engagements underscored broad international backing for Palestinian governance efforts, referring to the meetings of the Global Alliance for the Two-State Solution and the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee.

"We had over 60 countries present in order to support Palestine. We are the biggest supporters of Palestine, and really to show that there has to be a Palestinian-owned and Palestinian-led process in order to have stability in the region," Kallas said.

Her remarks come as EU foreign ministers gather to discuss escalating tensions across multiple fronts, including the war in Ukraine and developments in the Middle East.

Kallas said discussions would also cover the situation in Lebanon, with the country's prime minister expected to brief ministers on ongoing talks with Israel and the broader domestic situation.

She highlighted concerns over the future of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), whose mandate is set to expire later this year.

On Iran, Kallas described the current ceasefire as "very fragile," stressing that diplomacy must be given a chance to prevent further escalation.

"I hope that the ceasefire is also extended until there is a diplomatic solution," she said.

The meeting comes amid increasing pressure from some EU member states for a stronger stance on Israel.

Spain, Slovenia, and Ireland are said to have called for discussions on partially suspending the EU-Israel Association Agreement, citing the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the region.