Von der Leyen: Khamenei's death has opened up a chance for a new future for Iranians
Following the death of Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iranian society now has the opportunity to determine the country's future development independently. This was stated on social media by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
"With Khamenei's death, new hope has emerged for the people of Iran," she wrote, stressing that the international community should encourage the country's citizens to shape its future themselves.
At the same time, the head of the European Commission warned that the current moment is accompanied by the risk of instability, which could lead to a new wave of violence in the region.
According to her, the European Union is working with key international players and regional partners to ensure the safety and protection of the civilian population.
Von der Leyen also reported on her conversation with King Abdullah II of Jordan, expressing solidarity with the Hashemite Kingdom after the recent Iranian strikes. She stressed that Jordan is an important partner for Europe in the Middle East and will play a significant role in the coming period, and thanked the monarch for his leadership.
The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, also made a separate statement. In a post on X, she called Khamenei's death "a defining moment in Iran's history" and noted that it opens up prospects for greater freedom for the Iranian people.
Kallas added that she is in contact with partners, particularly in the region most affected by Iran's military actions, to develop practical steps to de-escalate the situation.