BRUSSELS: European Union (EU) leaders pledged to remain vigilant against any spillover from the Middle East conflicts that could trigger migratory pressure on the bloc, as the conflicts pose growing risks to Europe.
Although the conflict "has not translated into immediate migratory flows towards the EU, " leaders at a European Council meeting underscored "the importance of maintaining a high level of vigilance and ensuring the necessary level of preparedness, " according to conclusions adopted after the summit.
Drawing on lessons from the 2015 migration crisis, the bloc said it was ready to "fully mobilise its diplomatic, legal, operational and financial tools" to prevent migratory movements to the EU and preserve security in Europe. "The security and the control of the EU's external borders will continue to be strengthened, " the conclusions said.
The leaders also urged de-escalation and maximum restraint in the Middle East conflict, calling on all parties to fully respect international law and backing a moratorium on strikes against energy and water facilities.