“Europe must have its own voice – a voice in defence of international law, diplomacy and peace. This is what MEP Christian Wigenin said from the rostrum of the European Parliament in Strasbourg during a debate on the situation in the Middle East.

In his statement he described what was happening as another example of weakening of the international legal order. “The situation in the Middle East is a dangerous escalation with an unclear strategic goal that risks escalating into a large-scale war with unpredictable consequences,” Vigenin said.

He stressed that the regime in Iran has a destabilising role and is responsible for repression against its own citizens, but warned that military action is not the solution. “Hardly anyone believes that military action will lead to a democratic and stable Iran. History gives us enough examples – Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, the list is long,” the MEP said.

According to him, responding to one violation of international law with another only deepens instability. Vigenin warned that the conflict sends a dangerous message to authoritarian regimes around the world – that arming, not diplomacy, is the only guarantee for security.

He called on the European Union to take a clear and independent position. “We cannot find ourselves embroiled in yet another conflict started by the US, and the European citizens pay the price again,” Vigenin stressed.

In conclusion, he called on the leadership of the European Commission to take a stronger stance and support diplomatic efforts for peace.

“More courageously, Mrs. Von der Leyen. Pedro Sanchez has shown you the way. No to this war!”, called Christian Wigenin.