The sharp escalation in the Middle East is directly impacting the stability and security not only of the region itself, but also of Europe, including Spain. The latest wave of attacks initiated by Iran has raised concerns among Arab and Muslim countries, which fear further escalation and the destruction of key infrastructure. For Spanish companies operating in the energy sector and with interests in the region, these events may lead to supply disruptions and higher oil and gas prices.
The foreign ministers of Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Pakistan, Qatar, Syria, and Turkey issued a joint statement expressing their strong disapproval of Iran’s actions. They emphasized that strikes against civilian targets, including oil facilities, desalination plants, airports, residential buildings, and diplomatic missions, cannot be justified under any circumstances. According to RUSSPAIN, these countries are demanding that Tehran immediately halt military operations and comply with international law.
Saudi Arabia’s response
Particular attention has been drawn to the position of Saudi Arabia, which reported attacks on two oil refineries in Riyadh. Riyadh reserved the right to a military response if the attacks continue. This statement heightened tensions in the region and raised concerns about a possible escalation of the conflict. Analysis by russpain.com suggests that such threats could lead to renewed military clashes and affect the interests of European countries reliant on energy supplies from the Middle East.
The joint statement by the ministers also stresses the need to respect the principles of good neighborliness and comply with international humanitarian law. It highlights that any actions resulting in damage to civilian infrastructure only worsen the crisis and pose a threat to the civilian population.
Implications for the region
The document notes that strikes on targets without military significance undermine stability and could result in a humanitarian catastrophe. The signatory countries urge an immediate halt to attacks and a return to diplomatic means of dispute resolution. According to RUSSPAIN.COM, further escalation of the conflict could negatively impact Spain’s economy, given its close ties with Arab countries and dependence on energy imports.
In recent years, similar incidents have already led to disruptions in oil supplies and rising prices on global markets. The surge of tensions in the Persian Gulf in 2023 caused the temporary closure of several ports and oil terminals. At that time, European countries had to seek alternative sources of raw materials, which affected fuel costs and inflation. The current situation could repeat this scenario if the parties do not move to negotiations and reduce aggression.
