The European Union’s special representative for the Gulf, Luigi Di Maio, has called for a shift toward region-led solutions to address the Middle East crisis, warning that externally imposed strategies are unlikely to deliver lasting peace.
Di Maio made the remarks on Saturday while speaking at a panel session during the Antalya Diplomacy Forum held in southern Türkiye. His comments come amid heightened tensions in the Gulf region and growing concerns over the broader implications of ongoing conflicts.
Addressing participants at the forum, Di Maio stressed that countries within the Middle East must take the lead in resolving regional crises, arguing that sustainable peace can only be achieved through inclusive and locally driven processes.
“Every solution for the Middle East has to be a region-led process,” he said, emphasizing that external actors should play a supportive rather than directive role.
He described the current instability in the Gulf as further evidence of what he called the “erosion of international law,” warning that the weakening of global norms is contributing to recurring conflicts and geopolitical uncertainty.
“If we want to try to find a solution for avoiding another crisis, like the ongoing crisis or a wider spillover, we need to work all together,” Di Maio said, underscoring the need for coordinated international and regional efforts.
The EU envoy reiterated Europe’s commitment to multilateralism and adherence to international law, noting that the bloc continues to prioritize diplomatic engagement and cooperation over military involvement. He made it clear that the European Union does not seek to become directly involved in ongoing conflicts.
“Europe does not want to be part of this war,” he said, while acknowledging that European countries are nonetheless supporting their Gulf partners in defensive capacities.
According to Di Maio, several European nations are assisting regional allies through bilateral agreements, including efforts to intercept drones and missiles launched from Iran. These measures, he said, are aimed at enhancing the defensive capabilities of partner countries without escalating tensions.
He also highlighted the far-reaching global consequences of instability in the Gulf, noting that disruptions in the region extend beyond energy markets. While oil and gas remain critical, Di Maio pointed out that other strategic commodities are also affected.
“The instability in the Gulf affects not only oil and gas, but also trade in fertilizers, helium for semiconductors, and other essential goods moving through the Strait of Hormuz,” he said.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important maritime routes, serving as a key transit point for global energy supplies and commercial goods. Any disruption in the waterway can have immediate and widespread economic repercussions.
Reflecting on past diplomatic efforts, Di Maio cited the collapse of the 2015 Iran nuclear agreement as a lesson in the importance of regional inclusion. He argued that excluding key regional stakeholders from negotiations can undermine long-term stability and lead to renewed tensions.
The envoy advocated for stronger regional cooperation, including improved connectivity and defense collaboration, as a means of building resilience against future crises. However, he clarified that greater autonomy for the region should not be interpreted as isolation from the international community.
“Autonomy does not mean isolation,” he said, adding that partnerships between regional and global actors remain essential.
Di Maio also commended the mediation efforts of several countries that have played a role in easing tensions and facilitating dialogue. He specifically praised Türkiye, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan for their contributions to securing a ceasefire and promoting diplomatic engagement.
According to him, these efforts demonstrate the potential for regional actors to lead peace initiatives and build consensus among stakeholders.
Analysts say the EU’s position reflects a broader recognition that sustainable solutions in the Middle East require local ownership and cooperation. While international support remains important, the complexity of regional dynamics often demands approaches tailored to local realities.
As tensions continue to simmer in the Gulf, Di Maio’s remarks highlight the urgency of renewed diplomatic efforts and the importance of inclusive dialogue. With global markets and security closely tied to developments in the region, the push for a region-led framework may gain further traction in the coming months.
For now, the EU’s stance underscores its preference for diplomacy, multilateralism, and partnership, as it seeks to navigate one of the most volatile geopolitical landscapes in the world.
