A South Asia Monitor analysis published on August 30, 2026 says European countries are increasingly reluctant to follow Washington’s Iran strategy, despite continuing to value US security cooperation. The article argues that differences over Iran signal a broader shift in the transatlantic relationship, with Europe seeking a more independent foreign policy based on its own interests.

The analysis cites Europe’s experience after the United States left the 2015 Iran nuclear deal during Donald Trump’s first term. US secondary sanctions forced European companies to choose between trade with Iran and access to the US market, while the European INSTEX mechanism failed to become an effective trade channel and closed in 2023.

Europe’s priorities include limiting Iran’s nuclear programme, keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, reducing regional tensions and pursuing negotiations. The article says Europe does not oppose pressure on Iran, but rejects US unilateral control over its scale, methods and ultimate objectives. European governments also fear that severing commercial and diplomatic ties could weaken their future ability to engage Tehran if Washington returns to negotiations.