Why Some Analysts Believe Europe May Find It In Its Own Interest To Support U.S. Goals In Iran

As much of Europe insists that the conflict between the U.S. and Iran is "not our war," some analysts argue that a more engaged European stance could serve long-term security interests, economic stability, and the credibility of transatlantic alliances.

Europe's Reluctance

European capitals have been cautious about involvement in the U.S.–Iran conflict, citing public opinion, legal constraints, and a desire to avoid direct military engagement. A report by Politico noted that many European leaders believe the crisis is primarily an American concern, reflecting a long-standing tendency in Brussels, Berlin and Paris to avoid entanglement in distant Middle Eastern conflicts.

Yet this reluctance could also carry risks. The outlet noted that Europe could face the consequences of global threats alone if it disengages from U.S. security priorities. Analysts argue that by distancing themselves, European states may weaken the alliance structures that have underpinned regional stability for decades.

Some European Countries Are Cooperating

Despite broader hesitation, some European governments have taken concrete steps to support U.S. operations.

Romania approved a U.S. request to temporarily deploy military aircraft and equipment at its Mihail Kogălniceanu Air Base to assist with operations in the Middle East, according to Bloomberg and The Wall Street Journal. Romania's parliament voted in favor after the top defense council's approval, and officials framed the move as defensive and logistical in nature.

Portugal has allowed U.S. MQ‑9 Reaper drones and other aircraft to operate out of Lajes Air Base in the Azores. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio "thanked Portugal for its close cooperation with the United States," according to a State Department readout of his call with Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel, highlighting Lisbon's role in facilitating operations from the base. Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro reportedly told Parliament in mid-March that U.S. use of Lajes Air Base "has fully complied" with the terms granted by Portugal. Expresso reported that the base has served as a "key logistics hub" for the U.S., primarily for refueling and support flights, under a conditional authorization from Lisbon.

IBT has contacted Romania's and Portugal's press offices and foreign ministries for direct comment regarding U.S. use of these air bases, but has not immediately received a response.

Strategic Interests at Stake

Experts say Europe's interest in supporting U.S. objectives goes beyond alliance solidarity. The conflict threatens global energy markets, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping lane for oil exports. Disruptions in this region have immediate consequences for European economies, according to the analysts cited by Politico.

Moreover, maintaining operational cooperation with the United States reinforces NATO credibility. Politico reported that analysts argue European inaction could erode the transatlantic security framework, potentially leaving Europe to confront future threats alone. Strategic alignment on logistics and access, as demonstrated by Romania and Portugal, allows Europe to safeguard its interests while avoiding direct combat.

Critics Call for European Autonomy

Not all European voices support increased engagement. Some policymakers emphasize the need for strategic autonomy, building independent military and foreign policy capabilities rather than relying on U.S. leadership. Euronews reported that European Investment Bank officials and policymakers see the crisis as a reminder that Europe must strengthen its own security apparatus to remain resilient in a volatile world.

The debate over Europe's role in the U.S.–Iran conflict highlights a key tension: balancing political caution with strategic necessity. Cases like Romania and Portugal show that targeted cooperation can advance European interests without full-scale military involvement. Analysts cited by Politico suggest that, in a world of increasingly interconnected threats, supporting U.S. goals in Iran may ultimately be in Europe's long-term interest, preserving alliance credibility, economic stability, and regional security.