The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, on Monday warned that the ongoing war involving Iran is already affecting Europe, citing rising energy prices, security threats and disruptions to global trade.
Speaking to European Union ambassadors, von der Leyen said the ripple effects of the conflict are spreading beyond the Middle East.
“We are now seeing a regional conflict with unintended consequences. And the spillover is already a reality today,” she said.
Global oil prices surged on Monday, rising close to $120 per barrel as the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran entered its second week.
At the same time, European gas prices jumped by about 30 percent, although they remain below the levels recorded after Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Security and Trade Concerns
Von der Leyen said European partners are already facing security threats linked to the conflict.
She cited an incident where an Iranian-made drone struck a British military base in Cyprus, an EU member state.
The EU chief also warned that global trade routes are under pressure as shipping activity declines through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil and gas supplies.
Nearly one-fifth of the world’s crude oil passes through the strategic waterway.
Global System Under Pressure
Von der Leyen said the conflict could raise major questions about the future of the international rules-based system.
She told diplomats that the European Union cannot retreat from global engagement despite growing instability.
“The idea that we can simply retrench and withdraw from this chaotic world is simply a fallacy,” she said.
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The EU chief also addressed the ongoing war in Ukraine and reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to financial support for Kyiv.
She said the EU will move forward with a €90 billion ($104 billion) loan package for Ukraine despite opposition from Hungary.
“We will deliver on our commitments because our credibility and more importantly, our security is at stake,” von der Leyen said.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
