On March 9, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, posted on the social media platform X that Europe is prepared to face the consequences of the US and Israel's aggression against Iran.

Von der Leyen stated, "The Iranian people deserve the right to freedom, dignity, and to decide their own future. Even though we know that all of this will be dangerous and turbulent during and after the war."

Von der Leyen pointed out, "We are currently witnessing a regional conflict whose consequences may be unpredictable." She added, "These spillover effects have now become a reality in terms of energy, finance, trade, transportation, and displacement of people."

Regarding von der Leyen's statement, it can be interpreted from the following dimensions:

* Political Position: Clearly opposed to the Iranian regime

The statement in the post, "The Iranian people deserve the right to freedom, dignity, and to decide their own future," is completely consistent with her firm remarks in public speeches, such as "we should not shed tears for the Iranian regime." This indicates that the EU is on the opposing side of the current Iranian regime politically, but also subtly distinguishes between "the Iranian people" and "the Iranian regime," reserving theoretical space for future engagement.

* Practical Concerns: Spillover Effects Have Become "Ongoing"

This is the most significant part of von der Leyen's speech. Her statements about "unpredictable consequences" and "spillover effects have already become reality" are based on the current situation:

* Energy Sector: As a direct consequence of the conflict, European natural gas prices have risen sharply, and oil prices once approached $120 per barrel.

* Security and Trade: She explicitly stated, "Our partners are being attacked," and cited examples such as an Iranian drone attack on a British base located in Cyprus, an EU member state, and near-stagnation of shipping in key waterways (such as the Strait of Hormuz).

Von der Leyen's post also expressed her deep reflection on Europe's foreign policy. She believes that Europe "can no longer merely act as a guardian of the old international order" and cannot rely solely on a rules-based international system to protect its interests. This marks a shift in Europe towards a more pragmatic and self-interest-oriented foreign policy, especially emphasizing security capabilities.

In summary, von der Leyen's remarks can be interpreted as: Europe is cleaning up the aftermath of a war that has already reached its doorstep — taking a political stance, responding urgently to practical impacts in areas such as energy and security, while also deeply reflecting on why, as a "rule" guardian, it has now become a "victim" of the conflict.

Original: toutiao.com/article/1859232293539852/

Statement: The article represents the views of the author himself.