Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Thursday accused European governments of contributing to rising tensions in the Middle East, warning that their current policies could fuel a broader regional conflict with serious global repercussions.

In a statement posted on the social media platform X, Araghchi said that while several countries are working to prevent an all-out war in the region, European states are instead pursuing approaches that, in his view, deepen instability rather than reduce it.

He criticized European alignment with the United States on Iran-related policies, particularly regarding the “snapback” mechanism tied to international sanctions. The mechanism, part of the 2015 nuclear agreement framework, allows for the reimposition of UN sanctions if Iran is found to be non-compliant. Tehran has repeatedly warned that activating snapback would undermine diplomacy and further escalate tensions.

Araghchi also condemned moves in some European countries to designate Iran’s national military as a terrorist organization, calling such actions provocative and counterproductive. He argued that labeling a state’s armed forces in this way weakens diplomatic norms and increases the risk of direct confrontation.

The foreign minister further accused European governments of applying double standards to regional conflicts, pointing specifically to the war in Gaza. He said Europe has failed to take meaningful action in response to the conflict there while intensifying criticism of Iran over human rights issues.

“Selective approaches and inconsistent policies only deepen mistrust and instability,” Araghchi said, adding that such positions undermine Europe’s credibility as a neutral or constructive actor in the Middle East.

He also warned that Europe itself could face significant economic consequences if the current trajectory leads to a large-scale regional conflict. Araghchi highlighted the risk of sharp increases in global energy prices, noting that instability in the Middle East—a key hub for oil and gas supplies—would have direct consequences for European economies and consumers.

Araghchi concluded by saying that European citizens deserve foreign policies that prioritize long-term stability and economic security, rather than actions that could draw the continent into the fallout of a wider regional crisis.