A top European official warned Monday that attacks on Iranian energy facilities and other civilian infrastructure would be “illegal,” a not-so-subtle message to President Trump as the U.S. commander in chief threatens devastating strikes.
European Council President Antonio Costa said only a diplomatic solution could end the five-week war and deal with its root causes.
“Any targeting of civilian infrastructure, namely energy facilities, is illegal and unacceptable,” Mr. Costa posted on X. “This applies to Russia’s war in Ukraine, and it applies everywhere. The Iranian civilian population is the main victim of the Iranian regime. It would also be the main victim of a widening of the military campaign.”
The European Council provides political direction for the European Union, making Mr. Costa a leading voice on the continent.
European Council President Antonio Costa, left, …
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Mr. Costa aired his concern after Mr. Trump said he is prepared to authorize major strikes against Iranian power plants and bridges if Tehran does not open the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically vital waterway off Iran’s coast.
Iran has effectively closed the strait to commercial ship traffic since the start of the U.S. military campaign in late February.
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The narrow waterway is a crucial maritime corridor for moving goods out of the Persian Gulf, especially oil. About 20% of the world’s oil flows through the strait. Its closure has driven rapidly rising fuel prices around the world.
On March 26, Mr. Trump gave Iran 10 days to open the strait or face strikes. That 10-day window expires Tuesday.
“Tuesday will be Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one, in Iran,” Mr. Trump posted in Easter Sunday on Truth Social. “There will be nothing like it!!! Open the [F——-] Strait, you crazy bastards, or you’ll be living in Hell — JUST WATCH! Praise be to Allah.”
Iranian officials dismissed those threats, while Mr. Costa urged restraint in his social media post.
“Escalation will not achieve a ceasefire and peace,” Mr. Costa wrote. “Only negotiations will, namely the ongoing efforts led by regional partners.”
• Ben Wolfgang contributed to this report.
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