World reacts to US, Israel attack on Iran, Tehran retaliation | News
Global Reactions to Escalating Conflict Between U.S.-Israel and Iran
The recent escalation of conflict involving Israel and the United States against Iran, sparked by joint airstrikes across Iranian territory, has elicited urgent calls for restraint from international leaders. Criticism has arisen within the Gulf states caught in the crossfire, particularly as Iran retaliates with missile strikes targeting U.S. military assets within their borders.
United States Response
On Saturday, President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. was conducting a “major combat operation” aimed at addressing threats from the Iranian regime. As missile strikes hit various locations in Tehran and across the nation, Trump emphasized a commitment to dismantling Iran’s missile capabilities and urged the Iranian populace to rise against their government.
Israel’s Position
A senior Israeli defense official stated that the coordinated strikes had been in planning for months, with specific dates set weeks prior. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu framed the attacks as a necessary step to eliminate what he described as an “existential threat” from Iran. He asserted that the military actions would empower the Iranian people to reclaim control of their future.
Iran’s Reaction
In response, Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attacks as violations of the United Nations Charter, vowing significant retaliatory measures. Attacks on Israel and Gulf nations hosting U.S. military installations have intensified, with Iranian officials declaring all U.S. and Israeli assets in the region as legitimate targets.
European Union’s Stance
Leaders from the European Commission and Council issued a joint statement expressing concern over the conflict, urging all parties to exercise maximum restraint and adhere to international law.
Humanitarian Calls
Mirjana Spoljaric, president of the International Committee of the Red Cross, called for adherence to wartime protocols. She warned of a “dangerous chain reaction” in the Middle East, predicting devastating consequences for civilians.
Responses from Gulf Nations
Oman, a key mediator in U.S.-Iran negotiations, expressed disappointment over the outbreak of violence. Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi warned that the unrest does not serve U.S. or global interests.
In Qatar, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned Iranian missile strikes as a serious violation of its sovereignty. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) also condemned Iran’s actions, labeling them a “cowardly act” and asserting its right to respond.
Bahrain confirmed that an Iranian missile struck the U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet headquarters, describing the action as “treacherous.” Kuwait characterized the attacks on its territory as a “flagrant violation” of international law and reserved the right to respond.
Saudi Arabia condemned the Iranian strikes, warning of “dire consequences” for regional stability.
International Voices
Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar called for an end to hostilities and a return to diplomatic negotiations. Russia criticized the U.S. for leveraging nuclear negotiations as a cover for military operations, urging the international community to assess the situation objectively.
Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry held Iran responsible for the current crisis, citing recent violence against protesters. Norway’s Foreign Minister Espen Barth stated that Israel’s actions breached international law, noting that preventive strikes necessitate an imminent threat. Belgium’s Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot expressed regret that diplomatic efforts had failed to prevent the conflict, emphasizing that the Iranian people should not suffer for their government’s decisions.
Conclusion
As tensions continue to escalate, the global community remains watchful, calling for de-escalation and adherence to international norms in order to protect civilian lives and maintain regional stability.
