EU Capitals Accuse von der Leyen of Diplomatic Overreach During Iran Crisis
1921 Min Read
Several European governments have criticised European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for allegedly overstepping her role during the early days of the U.S.-Israeli campaign against Iran, arguing she acted beyond her mandate by positioning herself as the EU’s main international representative. Diplomats and lawmakers told POLITICO that von der Leyen held numerous calls with EU and Gulf leaders and publicly signalled support for regime change in Tehran, actions they say should fall under EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, whose role is to coordinate positions among member states.
Critics warn that unilateral statements risk confusing partners and committing the EU without prior consultation. Some diplomats also questioned what concrete support von der Leyen could offer Gulf states given the Commission’s limited foreign policy powers.
The Commission rejected the criticism, insisting that outreach to global leaders forms part of von der Leyen’s responsibility to lead the EU’s external policies. It stressed that the bloc’s official stance on the Iran conflict was set out by Kallas in a statement agreed with all 27 member states.
Tensions also extend to other issues, including the Commission’s push to accelerate Ukraine’s EU accession and participation in Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace” initiative. Diplomats say the disputes highlight broader uncertainty over the division of foreign policy responsibilities within the EU.
