Denmark, Italy warn Iran war could trigger migrant influx

The prime ministers of Denmark and Italy have urged stronger border controls, warning that the escalating conflict in the Middle East could spark a new wave of migrants and refugees դեպի the European Union.

In a joint letter, Mette Frederiksen and Giorgia Meloni cautioned that Europe “cannot risk a repeat” of the 2015–2016 migration crisis, when hundreds of thousands—many fleeing the Syrian Civil War—arrived in the bloc.

The two leaders, both known for tightening immigration policies at home, called on the European Commission to adopt a €458-million ($527-million) humanitarian aid package aimed partly at reducing migration pressures toward Europe.

“The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is increasingly worrying in multiple domains, particularly in a region already hosting large numbers of displaced people,” they wrote in the letter addressed to EU leaders.

They stressed that a renewed surge in migration would not only deepen the humanitarian crisis but also risk straining the EU’s internal security and unity.

Frederiksen and Meloni urged increased financial support for countries in the Middle East so they can manage displaced populations locally, rather than allowing pressures to build toward Europe. They also emphasized the need for preparedness, including stronger border measures, to avoid being “taken by surprise” as in the past.

The issue was also discussed at an informal meeting involving several EU countries and the European Commission, alongside Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten, focusing on “innovative” approaches to curb migration in light of the conflict.

Meanwhile, Friedrich Merz has warned that a potential collapse of Iran could have far-reaching consequences, including triggering fresh migration flows into Europe.