EU High Representative Josep Borrell warned that the US’s 30-day timeline for Israel to improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza could lead to more deaths, saying, “A month of killing means a lot of people.” Speaking ahead of the EU Summit in Brussels, Borrell emphasized the urgent need for stronger military and civilian support for Ukraine, calling Russia an “existential threat” to Europe. He also highlighted the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East, criticizing Israeli attacks on UN operations, and urged the Council of Europe to condemn these actions. On Georgia, Borrell stressed the importance of upcoming elections in determining the country’s future path towards Europe.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Arakchi issued a stern warning to the UK, Germany, and France, accusing them of making a “new strategic mistake” regarding Tehran’s nuclear program. In a social media post, Arakchi said, “Iran will give a tough and determined response to the violation of its rights,” criticizing the European trio for backing a resolution against Iran at the IAEA Board of Governors.
Arakchi condemned the move as baseless, recalling past disputes in 2005 which led to the expansion of Iran’s uranium enrichment. “Have these three really not learned any lessons in the last twenty years?” he said.
Meanwhile, the IAEA reported on May 31 that Iran’s 60% enriched uranium stockpile had grown from 274.8 kg in February to 408.6 kg by May 17. In response, the UK, Germany, and France are reportedly preparing to refer Iran’s file to the UN Security Council, which could activate the “snapback” mechanism and reimpose UN sanctions.
TR