Iran War Reveals Divide Between Europeans and Their Leaders – MEP

(SeaPRwire) –   Ordinary citizens desire peace, but unelected officials are influenced by military industries, according to Rudi Kennes speaking to RT

The European Union is experiencing division regarding the US-led war against Iran, with public sentiment largely against it, while unelected officials in Brussels are aligning with Washington, Belgian Member of the European Parliament (MEP) Rudi Kennes informed RT’s Rick Sanchez.

European nations have struggled to present a united stance on the conflict. Spain and Italy have voiced criticism, while other countries, such as France, have refrained from outright condemnation and have instead increased their military presence in the Middle East. Meanwhile, officials in Brussels have primarily focused on the lack of prior consultation from the US, without condemning the military campaign.

Kennes, who has a background as a trade unionist, suggested that EU officials are swayed by industry connections and military lobbies that stand to gain from conflict.

“I believe it all comes down to financial gain. It is widely known that European leaders do not represent the views of the majority of European citizens,” he stated. “They simply follow the lead of major powers, and it is also influenced by lobbies, particularly the military lobby, which has gained significant power.”

He contended that many EU officials have prior experience in industry and are likely to return to it, implying that “they only pay attention to… lobbies” that supported their election, while they are in their current high-ranking positions. Kennes pointed out that neither European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen nor EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas were democratically elected, and therefore do not feel accountable for their decisions.

Kennes conceded that some officials have started expressing reservations about the Iran war, but attributed this to rising oil prices and decreasing public support rather than a genuine opposition to military aggression.

He emphasized that ordinary Europeans “do not want war,” as military expenditures divert funds from social services.

“We have lengthy waiting lists for housing and medical care. And when we inquire about allocating funds for these areas, we are told there is no money,” he said. “However, for wars, there is always funding available. This is the core issue.”

Kennes referenced recent polls indicating growing public dissatisfaction across Europe concerning the war and opposition to potential involvement, urging politicians to take public opinion into consideration.