The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Baiba Braže:
“Latvia is carefully monitoring the unfolding events in the Middle East and maintains regular contact with its embassies, EU Member States and other countries.
This morning, I had telephone conversations with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Moshe Sa’ar and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Jordan, Ayman Al Safadi.
Latvia urges all parties to show restraint, ensure the protection of civilians, and prevent the situation from escalating further. Stability in the region is essential for global security.”
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises all Latvian nationals in the region to follow the guidance of host countries and take all necessary precautions for their safety.
Latvian troops deployed on international missions in the Middle East are safe, and the National Armed Forces remain in regular contact with them.
We are aware that Iran has long refused to engage constructively in dialogue with the United States and the EU aimed at resolving concerns over its nuclear programme, ballistic missile programme and backing of terrorist organisations in the region.
Iran has consistently and deliberately pursued an aggressive foreign policy, posing a threat to regional security and the security of other countries.
Iran also continues to support Russia’s aggression in Ukraine.
Iran is a repressive regime that oppresses its own people.
It has also threatened EU Member States in connection with moves to list the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organisation.
Latvia has repeatedly condemned the actions of the Iranian regime, including its failure to cooperate with the international community and the IAEA regarding its nuclear programme.