HELSINKI, April 19, 2024 (BSS/AFP) - European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen called Friday for restraint to avoid further escalation in the Middle East, following reports that Israel carried out a strike on Iran.

"We have to do everything possible (so) that all sides restrain from the escalation in that region," von der Leyen told reporters during a visit to Finland, adding: "It is absolutely necessary that the region stays stable and that all sides refrain from further action."