EU Leaders See Opportunity for Change After Iranian Supreme Leader’s Death

The European Union's top diplomat says Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death creates a historic opportunity for the Iranian people to shape their country's future. EU officials are working with regional partners to prevent escalating violence while expressing hope for positive change in Iran.

BRUSSELS – The European Union’s foreign policy leader believes Iran has reached a pivotal moment following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, calling it a historic turning point for the nation.

Kaja Kallas, the EU’s chief diplomat, described the situation as offering new possibilities for Iran’s future. “What comes next is uncertain. But there is now an open path to a different Iran, one that its people may have greater freedom to shape,” Kallas wrote on the social media platform X on Sunday.

The EU official emphasized her efforts to coordinate with international allies to reduce tensions in the region. “I’m in contact with partners, including those in the region that bear the brunt of Iran’s military actions, to find practical steps for de-escalation,” she stated.

According to Iranian state media reports, Khamenei died Saturday when Israeli and U.S. airstrikes destroyed his compound in central Tehran.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also weighed in on the developments, revealing she had spoken with Jordan’s King Abdullah. Von der Leyen expressed Europe’s complete support for Jordan following Iranian attacks on the kingdom.

“With Khamenei gone, there is renewed hope for the people of Iran. We must ensure that the future is theirs to claim and shape,” von der Leyen posted on X.

However, the European leader cautioned about potential consequences of the current situation. “At the same time, this moment carries a real risk of instability that could push the region into a spiral of violence,” she warned.