The April 2026 edition of EU in Focus by TRENDS Belgium Virtual Office examines Europe’s response to the crisis in the Gulf region under the overarching theme: “Not Europe’s war, but Europe’s problem.
Triggered by U.S.–Israeli military operations against Iran, followed by Iranian retaliatory strikes on Gulf states and disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, the crisis has quickly transcended its regional boundaries. What initially appeared as a distant conflict has had immediate and tangible consequences for Europe, affecting energy markets, maritime security, as well as the transatlantic relationship.
This edition focuses on how Europe has responded to this crisis, both politically and operationally. It traces the evolution of the European approach from an initial phase of cautious pragmatism and deliberate distancing to a more engaged crisis management mode, as the economic and security implications became increasingly difficult to ignore.
The report first examines the political reactions at both the EU and member state levels, highlighting the balance European governments sought to strike between maintaining transatlantic cohesion and avoiding direct involvement in the conflict. It then explores how the crisis has exposed deeper structural vulnerabilities for Europe, particularly in energy dependence, defence capabilities, and reliance on U.S. security guarantees, while also diverting attention and resources from other strategic priorities, notably Ukraine.
Finally, the report assesses the emerging challenges and opportunities for Europe’s future engagement in the Gulf, including the potential for a more strategic and security-oriented partnership with regional actors, the forthcoming EU Middle East strategy, and enhanced cooperation in areas such as maritime security and defence capability development, particularly in counter-drone warfare.
