TEHRAN – In recent weeks, European attempts to revive sanctions against Iran’s Islamic republic have once again dominated international headlines. But what’s behind this move goes far beyond simple legal or diplomatic measures. In fact, it is an effort to restore Europe’s long-standing role in the global political order.
For years, Europe has sought to become an independent political pole on the world stage. However, during the rise of American unilateralism, especially during the Trump era – the European Union was effectively sidelined. Trump saw Europe as a strategic partner, rather as a surrounding player. Even in crises directly linked to European security, such as the conflict in Ukraine, he preferred to manage the situation without consulting or engaging with European states. This approach has hit Europe’s political confidence a serious blow.
In response, the European government has recently attempted to reassert itself and project influence in shaping international arrangements. For example, some European states have proposed initiatives such as the recognition of Palestinians despite their long-standing relationships and support with the Israeli regime. This change is not about true changes in the European worldview, but about maintaining its relevance as a visible force of global issues.
Perhaps the most important area that Europe still believed was the Iranian nuclear trade (JCPOA). As Washington withdraws from the deal under Trump, the US effectively loses its ability to activate the “snapback” mechanism. This gave Europe a unique opportunity to use mechanisms as an exploitation to reaffirm its independence and credibility in global politics. But Europe made a big mistake.
Rather than pursuing fair and balanced transactions, the European government has raised unrealistic and irrational demands on Iran. Ultimately, instead of exploiting their independent position, they returned following the Washington lead. In doing so, they waste what could have been a strategic opportunity to redefine Europe’s global role.
The consequences of this failure are clear. Europe has lost one of its last historic opportunities to regain real political weight on the international stage. This strategic error will not enhance Europe’s status. On the contrary, it accelerates the decline of political influence, especially compared to the United States.
The author’s view proves that the next few days and months will be expensive for Europe. Unions, who may have secured an independent role through wise and bold decisions, instead chose blind integrity with Washington. History may well document this period as a prominent example of Europe’s inability to act independently to shape global problems.