Based on the article from Focus published on September 20th, titled “Iran Not Only Provokes in the Middle East – It’s Dangerous for Europe Too,” Iran’s regime poses an increasing danger to European nations, beyond its aggressive actions in the Middle East.
The European Union’s past policies toward Tehran have been marked by a troubling naivety that now threatens European security.
Historically, countries like Germany and other European states have downplayed the risks posed by Iran. This is evident in incidents such as German President Steinmeier’s congratulatory message on the 40th anniversary of Iran’s revolution, symbolizing a broader European approach under Chancellor Angela Merkel that emphasized diplomacy while underestimating the dangers of regimes like Iran and Russia.
Recent geopolitical developments highlight Tehran’s broader ambitions. Iran’s involvement in the Caucasus, particularly in Armenia, raises alarm bells for Europe.
While Armenia seeks closer ties with the EU, its relationship with both Russia and Iran complicates matters. Tehran has used Armenia as a transit route for military supplies, including missiles and drones for Russia’s war in Ukraine.
In fact, Iran’s influence is not confined to the Middle East; its interference in Armenia, including covert arms deals, signals that the Islamic Republic is extending its reach toward Europe.
Moreover, Iran’s export of state-sponsored terrorism has had direct implications for Europe. The Iranian Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) have been linked to at least 11 attempted attacks in Europe between 2018 and 2024.
These actions have been largely overlooked by European policymakers, allowing Iran to view Europe as a battlefield for its ideological and geopolitical confrontations.
European sanctions on Iran, including recent measures aimed at Iran Air due to its role in supplying drones to Russia, have done little to curb Tehran’s ambitions.
Symbolic efforts, such as the EU’s decision to send a delegate to attend the inauguration of Iran’s president in 2021, demonstrate how Europe continues to underestimate the real threat posed by the regime.
Tehran’s dangerous combination of arming terror organizations like Hamas and Hezbollah, supplying weapons to Russia, and engaging in clandestine military activities in Armenia could have severe repercussions for Europe.
Iran’s influence in Armenia is particularly troubling, as its growing footprint risks compromising EU security efforts in the region.
The focus for Europe should be a reassessment of its strategy toward Iran, recognizing the regime not just as a Middle Eastern problem but as a global security threat.
Strengthened sanctions, clear diplomatic stances, and cooperation among EU states are essential to mitigate the risk posed by Tehran.
In conclusion, Europe’s tolerance of Iran’s provocations is no longer sustainable and represents a serious security risk for the continent. Focus warns that any further naivety in dealing with Iran could lead to dire consequences for European stability.