Following Israel’s strikes on numerous targets in Iran early Friday, many nations around the world expressed their worries and called for both countries to de-escalate the situation.
Iran retaliated with a drone attack, while Israel stated that the strikes were just the beginning of a larger operation to stop Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
The Secretary of State made it clear that Israel acted alone and that the U.S. was not involved in the strikes. The President, however, cautioned Iran that the next round of Israeli attacks would be “even more brutal.”
The following is a summary of global reactions to the attacks.
called the attacks a “declaration of war” and alleged U.S. involvement. According to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi, Israel’s “aggression against Iran could not have been carried out without the coordination and approval of the United States.”
The Iranian Foreign Ministry stated on Friday that “Consequently, the U.S. government, as the primary supporter of this regime, will also be held responsible for the dangerous consequences of the Zionist regime’s reckless actions.”
The Kingdom strongly denounced Israel’s actions, deeming them a breach of international law.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia stated, “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia expresses its strong condemnation and denunciation of the blatant Israeli aggressions against the brotherly Islamic Republic of Iran.” It added, “These attacks compromise Iran’s sovereignty and security and are a clear violation of international laws and norms.”
Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan spoke with Araghchi and “His Highness affirmed the Kingdom’s rejection of the use of force and stressed the importance of dialogue to address disputes. The Israeli attack undermines efforts toward de-escalation and diplomatic solutions.”
U.S. attempts to negotiate a normalization agreement between Israel and Saudi Arabia had already been put on hold because of the conflict in Gaza.
Qatar also denounced the strikes, referring to them as “A blatant violation of Iran’s sovereignty and a clear breach of international law and its established principles.”
On Friday, Qatar’s foreign minister met with Iran’s ambassador to talk about ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation and diplomatic ties.
The UAE “condemned in the strongest terms”.
Turkey urged for an immediate cessation of hostilities, stating that “Israel must immediately cease its aggressive actions that could lead to broader conflicts.”
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar spoke with a number of European leaders, who voiced worries about escalation while upholding Israel’s right to self-defense.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated, “We affirm that Israel has the right to defend its existence and the safety of its citizens. We call on both sides to refrain from actions that could escalate the conflict and destabilize the entire region.”
Sa’ar informed German Foreign Minister Johan Wadephul, “We made this decision at the last possible moment, after all other avenues had been exhausted. The world saw that Iran was not ready to stop. The latest IAEA report illustrates serious Iranian violations. We know challenging days lie ahead, but we have no other choice.”
French President Emmanuel Macron stated on Friday that “France has repeatedly condemned Iran’s ongoing nuclear program and has taken all appropriate diplomatic measures in response.”
“In this context, France reaffirms Israel’s right to defend itself and ensure its security. To avoid jeopardizing the stability of the entire region, I call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and to de-escalate.”
Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the Israeli strikes as “concerning” and urged all parties to de-escalate and reduce tensions.
Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský expressed sympathy for Israel’s position. “Iran has long failed to meet its international obligations and continues building its nuclear program while voicing threats against Israel. I understand the need for military action to deter nuclear development in the region.”
According to Reuters, the Russian Foreign Ministry stated that “Unprovoked military strikes against a sovereign U.N. member state, its citizens, peaceful cities, and nuclear energy infrastructure are categorically unacceptable.”
“The international community cannot afford to be indifferent to such atrocities, which destroy peace and damage regional and international security.”
Beijing denounced the strikes as a violation of sovereignty.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated, “China opposes the violation of Iran’s sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity.” He added, “We oppose the intensification of conflict and are willing to play a constructive role in de-escalation.”
Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya described the strikes as “deeply regrettable” in light of ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the nuclear issue.
“The use of military force undermines peaceful negotiations. The government strongly condemns this action, which only escalates the situation.”
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