Global Leaders Urge Restraint Following Israeli Airstrikes on Iran

Following Israel’s unprecedented airstrikes on Iran, world leaders are calling for restraint as tensions in the Middle East reach a dangerous peak. The Israeli air force launched strikes on roughly 20 sites across Iran, including military bases and manufacturing facilities for missiles and drones, in response to Iran’s October 1 missile attack on Israeli targets. Iran had claimed the assault supported Hezbollah after Israel’s invasion of Lebanon.

The United States, a close ally of Israel, defended the strikes as self-defense measures intended to minimize civilian harm. “We urge Iran to stop its attacks on Israel to avoid further escalation,” said Sean Savett, spokesperson for the White House National Security Council. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer echoed the U.S. stance, emphasizing Israel’s right to defend itself but also urging restraint from both sides.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz urged Iran to cease any further escalation, stressing that de-escalation is essential for peace. France’s foreign ministry also called for Israeli restraint, warning against any action that could worsen regional tensions.

Saudi Arabia, a key player in the Sunni Muslim world, condemned the Israeli attacks as violations of international norms. Despite historical tensions, relations between Riyadh and Tehran have improved since a 2023 China-brokered diplomatic agreement, adding further complexity to the current conflict. The United Arab Emirates and Qatar also condemned the strikes, stressing the need for regional stability.

Neighboring Iraq criticized Israel’s actions as aggressive, warning of a spiraling conflict. Egypt, a mediator in ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas, reaffirmed its call for dialogue as the only way to de-escalate.

Hamas, meanwhile, condemned the strikes as violations of Iranian sovereignty, holding Israel responsible for the consequences of this aggression. Syrian officials, expressing solidarity with Iran, asserted Tehran’s right to defend itself.

With global leaders urging caution and diplomacy, concerns remain high over the potential for an escalating regional conflict that could quickly destabilize the Middle East.