Global Leaders Urge Restraint After Israeli Strikes on Iran
World leaders called for calm on Friday after Israel launched airstrikes against Iran, targeting nuclear and military sites and reportedly causing significant casualties among senior figures.
United Nations: “Maximum Restraint”
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged “both sides to show maximum restraint, avoiding at all costs a descent into deeper conflict, a situation that the region can hardly afford,” according to a spokesperson. Guterres expressed particular concern over strikes on nuclear facilities amid ongoing negotiations involving the United States and Iran.
Russia: “Unacceptable and Unprovoked”
Russian government spokesperson Dmitry Peskov condemned the escalation, calling the strikes “unacceptable” and “unprovoked.” “Russia is concerned and condemns the sharp escalation of tensions,” Peskov told state news agencies. The Russian embassy in Tel Aviv advised Russian nationals in Israel to consider leaving the country.
China: “Deeply Worried”
“The Chinese side is deeply worried about the severe consequences that such actions might bring,” said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian. “We call on relevant parties to take actions that promote regional peace and stability and to avoid further escalation of tensions.”
European Union: “Diplomacy Best Path Forward”
European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas urged all parties to exercise restraint. “The situation in the Middle East is dangerous. I urge all parties to prevent further escalation. Diplomacy remains the best path forward, and I stand ready to support any diplomatic efforts towards de-escalation,” she said.
Regional Responses
Iraq: Threat to International Peace
Iraq strongly condemned the attacks, stating, “This act represents a blatant violation of the fundamental principles of international law and the Charter of the United Nations, and constitutes a serious threat to international peace and security.”
Jordan: “No Battleground”
Jordan emphasized its neutrality, with a government spokesperson stating, “Jordan has not and will not allow any violation of its airspace, reaffirming that the Kingdom will not be a battleground for any conflict.” The country closed its airspace following the strikes.
Türkiye: “Aggressive Actions”
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the attacks as a “clear provocation that disregards international law,” urging the international community to “put an end to Israeli banditry.”
Tunisia: Violation of Sovereignty
Tunisia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the attack as “a blatant violation of Iran’s sovereignty and security,” warning that such actions threaten peace and stability regionally and globally. Tunisia expressed solidarity with the Iranian people and called for urgent action from the international community.
Libya: Threat to Regional Security
The Libyan Foreign Ministry denounced the strikes, stating, “This serious escalation represents a threat to regional and international peace and security.” The ministry urged all parties to “resolve the dispute peacefully through dialogue and diplomatic channels.”
