Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/1836 of 24 July 2026 amending Decision 2010/413/CFSP concerning restrictive measures against Iran.

Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/1837 of 24 July 2026 amending Decision (CFSP) 2023/1532 concerning restrictive measures in view of Iran’s military support to Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and to armed groups and entities in the Middle East and the Red Sea region as well as Iran’s actions undermining freedom of navigation in the Middle East.

The Council imposed restrictive measures on six persons responsible for serious human rights violations in Iran.

The Council imposed restrictive measures on nine individuals and four entities forming part of Russia's cyber ecosystem,  responsible for carrying out, enabling and facilitating malicious cyber activities against the EU, its member states and partners. 

President António Costa travelled to Dublin (Ireland) to attend the opening ceremony of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, where he delivered a speech.

During the press conference held at the end of the European Council meeting of 18-19 June 2026, President António Costa presented the main results of the discussions.

Following the 11th EU-Egypt Association Council, the EU and Egypt issued a joint press statement reaffirming the 2024 Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership and stressing the importance of strengthening bilateral cooperation on security, economy, migration and regional stability.

The President of the European Council, António Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, spoke to the press ahead of the G7 summit in Évian (France), on 15 June 2026.

European Council President António Costa invited leaders to the meeting of 18 and 19 June 2026 in Brussels, during which they will discuss Ukraine, Middle East, competitiveness, global economic challenges, the next Multiannual Financial Framework, defence and security, migration and illicit drugs. 

The Council adopted restrictive measures against two individuals and one entity involved in Iran’s actions and policies threatening the freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

The Council decided to extend the scope of existing EU’s restrictive measures in view of Iran’s military support to Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and to armed groups and entities in the Middle East and the Red Sea region, to target individuals and entities threatening the freedom of navigation in the Middle East.

Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/762 of 30 March 2026 amending Decision 2010/413/CFSP concerning restrictive measures against Iran.

Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Implementing Decision (CFSP) 2026/645 of 16 March 2026 implementing Decision 2011/235/CFSP concerning restrictive measures directed against certain persons and entities in view of the situation in Iran.

Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/779 of 30 March 2026 amending Decision 2011/235/CFSP concerning restrictive measures directed against certain persons and entities in view of the situation in Iran.

During the press conference held at the end of the informal meeting of heads of state or government of 23-24 April 2026, President António Costa presented the main results of the discussions.

President of the European Council António Costa highlighted that the EU is a reliable and predictable partner for the region, following the discussions held in Lefkosia, Cyprus on 24 April 2026.

The Council approved conclusions on 'EU energy and climate diplomacy – strengthening sovereignty and advancing the global clean transition'.

European Council President António Costa held a press conference in Doha, Qatar, following his visit to the Gulf region.