As Europe is taking more responsibility for its own security, the debate on European strategic autonomy has moved to the fore and not without controversy. However, at its heart is a simple reasoning: when needed, Europeans must be able to protect and defend European interests and values and have the capacity to act. We want to be able to cooperate with third countries on our own terms.

With the U.S. administration reviewing whether it should pull out of the Iran nuclear deal, Tehran may find renewed interest in a strategic relationship with Brussels.