Abela reiterates Malta’s call for de-escalation amid Middle East conflict
Prime Minister stresses dialogue, stability and Mediterranean prosperity in call with António Costa
The Prime Minister has reiterated Malta’s position in favour of de-escalation and dialogue as the war in the Middle East continues to spiral.
In a call with the President of the European Council on Friday afternoon ahead of a Brussels summit later this month, Robert Abela told António Costa that Malta’s position “remains clear”.
“Our position remains clear in favour of de-escalation to allow for a dialogue of peace. What we guarantee is stability in a secure Malta, capable of responding to international developments. The Mediterranean must remain a region where new prosperity can be built,” Abela said.
Earlier today, a number of NGOs urged the government to ensure Malta’s ports, airports and infrastructure are not used to support the United States’ attack on Iran, calling on authorities to uphold Malta’s neutrality.
On Monday, Abela told parliament the government was “all hands on deck” to protect Malta from any consequences of the war in the Gulf, while reiterating a call for a permanent ceasefire and dialogue.
He lauded Malta's neutrality in a troubled world but also pointed to the possible international economic consequences of the current conflict, particularly following the spike in oil prices.
The Middle East conflict entered a "new phase" on Friday after heavy attacks were reported in Tehran and Beirut.
Iranian media reported heavy strikes in the capital, Tehran, shortly after Israel announced it was striking "regime infrastructure" in the city.
Israel's military chief had earlier warned the conflict was moving to "the next phase" and pledged to "further dismantle the regime and its military capabilities".