European countries are divided on their approach to the conflict between Israel and Iran, hindering efforts to broker a diplomatic solution. The E3 (Germany, France, and UK) held talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Geneva, but failed to reach an agreement.
The US President Donald Trump denounced the talks as a failure, stating that Europe is not going to be able to help in this one. Iran’s Foreign Minister also made it clear that negotiations are impossible until Israel stops its aggression against Iran.
Germany remains pro-Israel, while France has taken a more sceptical stance. The UK has shifted its position after Labour’s election victory last year, formally sanctioning Israel’s national security minister and finance minister for “incitement of violence” against Palestinians.
The E3 countries have significant leverage with both Iran and Israel due to their economic power, military capabilities, and historical ties. However, experts believe that the US will ultimately play a decisive role in resolving the conflict. China, Russia, and the US disagree on how to approach the situation, with China’s interests largely aligned with Iran.
A UN Security Council solution is unlikely due to these differences. The Security Council would need a consensus among all member states, which seems impossible given the conflicting views of the major powers involved.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/features/2025/6/21/can-divided-european-powers-help-end-israels-war-on