Dear High Representative,

We are writing to you concerning the recent release of the Iranian oil tanker Adrian Darya 1 (formerly the Grace 1), which had been impounded since early July. This de-escalatory move represents a welcome step in easing tensions between different sides in the Persian Gulf dispute and is in accordance with EU law. As such it merits the European Union’s endorsement.

The lawful decision to seize the vessel in July prompted an unmeasured response from Iran, the illegal seizure of a British-operated ship, Stena Impero. Diplomatic relations between Iran and the West deteriorated and tension increased on international shipping routes operating through the Persian Gulf.

According to authorities in Gibraltar, the vessel was under suspicion of carrying oil to Syria, in violation of EU-imposed sanctions. After receiving assurances from Iran that the oil tanker would not be headed to Syria, courts there approved the release of the vessel. A US warrant to seize the ship for breaching its own sanctions against Iran, which the EU does not recognise, was resisted.

I hope you agree that these steps would have been right, whichever member state had taken them.

This event follows President Trump’s unilateral decision to withdraw the United States from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, which the EU rightly continues to support.

Which is why it now falls on the EU to show its commitment to the rule of law, to de-escalation of the immediate crisis and to dialogue and reconciliation. If we wish to ensure that the Iranian regime abides by the commitments assumed in the JCPOA, we must also show that the EU is united in its support for the Iran nuclear deal, and is firmly opposed to the Trump administration’s hawkish rhetoric towards Iran -- a stance which has fuelled antagonism and created more distrust amongst the involved parties, instead of building on the efforts already achieved.

As such, the EU is in a prime position to lead diplomatic efforts. We thus urge you to publicly endorse the decision to release the oil tanker, to continue your alternative approach to the US administration’s aggressive posture in the Gulf, and to re-affirm the European Union’s continued commitment to lasting peace and reconciliation in the region.

Yours Sincerely,

Martin Horwood MEP, Caroline Voaden MEP

(Liberal Democrat MEPs for SW England and Gibraltar)

23-08-2019 PANORAMAdailyGIBRALTAR