Trump ‘gambling with lives’ in Iran, top EU lawmaker Neumann tells Euronews
Trump ‘gambling with lives’ in Iran, top EU lawmaker Neumann tells Euronews
EU Criticizes US Strategy Amid Escalating Conflict
Hannah Neumann, head of the European Parliament’s Iran delegation, accused US President Donald Trump of risking the lives of 90 million Iranians through his actions. The conflict in the Middle East has intensified, prompting concerns over the consequences of continued military engagement.
“Donald Trump promised support for protesters before launching this war,” Neumann stated. “Yet he’s now gambling with the lives of 90 million Iranians and the entire region.”
Neumann highlighted Trump’s inconsistent statements, including his claim that the war would end “very soon” without specifying a timeframe. Earlier assessments had suggested the operation might last four to five weeks. She also noted conflicting reports on whether the goal is to replace the mullah regime or achieve a transition similar to Venezuela’s.
The EU’s approach to the crisis has been divided, with Spain and Slovenia taking strong stances against the recent US-Israeli strikes on Tehran. Madrid labeled the operation “illegal” and “escalatory,” reflecting a broader skepticism within the bloc about the conflict’s direction.
Hardliners Signal Continued Control
Despite calls for reform, Iran’s hardliners have maintained their grip, appointing Mojtaba Khamenei—the son of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei—as his father’s successor. Trump dismissed the move as “unacceptable,” but Neumann argued it represents ongoing repression.
“This appointment signals continuity, not change,” she said. “It’s clearly not what Iranians had hoped for.”
Neumann stressed that regime change must originate from within Iran, supported by a coalition of domestic and international voices. “Bombs alone won’t bring about a new vision,” she emphasized. “We need a broad coalition representing the country’s diversity.”
Calling for unity, she urged the EU to address the conflict not just with Iran, but also with the US and Israel. “We should push for de-escalation towards Trump and Israel,” she added. “They need to understand what they’re risking and clarify their goals.”