World leaders react to Israel's strikes on Iran, urge restraint
Israel attacked Iran early on Friday targeting the country's nuclear targets under the pretext of blocking Tehran from developing atomic weapons.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed the country was targeting Iranian scientists working on a nuclear bomb and missile factories in a so-called "operation" that would continue for days.
The attack, that reportedly killed six Iranian nuclear scientists was carried out despite Iran's long-standing insistence that its nuclear-related activity is for peaceful purposes.
Israel, which is believed to be the only nuclear armed state in the Middle East, has declared a state of emergency in anticipation of retaliation by Tehran.
Here are some reactions from top officials and governments around the world:
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio
"Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran, and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region."
"Let me be clear: Iran should not target US interests or personnel."
Qatar condemns attacks
Qatar strongly condemned Israel's attacks on Iran, calling the attacks 'a blatant violation of Iran's sovereignty and a clear breach of the principles of international law.'
In a statement, the Qatari Foreign Ministry voiced 'deep concern regarding the serious repercussions that may result from this escalation' and called on all involved parties to 'exercise restraint, resolve disputes through dialogue and peaceful means, and avoid anything that could destabilize security and stability in the region.'
'We emphasise our solidarity and support for Iran and persist in our position on the need for a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon,' the ministry added.
UAE also urges restraint
The United Arab Emirates has condemned in the strongest terms Israel's military attack on the Islamic Republic of Iran, and expressed its deep concern over the ongoing escalation and its repercussions on regional security and stability.
In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) stressed the importance of exercising the utmost self-restraint and judgment to mitigate risks and prevent the expansion of the conflict.
The Ministry reaffirmed the UAE's position that enhancing dialogue, adhering to international law, and respecting the sovereignty of states constitute essential principles for resolving the current crises.
The UAE emphasized the need to resolve disputes through diplomatic means rather than confrontation and escalation, and called on the United Nations Security Council to take urgent and necessary measures to achieve a ceasefire, and to reinforce international peace and security.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong
"Australia is alarmed by the escalation between Israel and Iran. This risks further destabilising a region that is already volatile. We call on all parties to refrain from actions and rhetoric that will further exacerbate tensions.
"We all understand the threat of Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile program represents a threat to international peace and security, and we urge the parties to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy."
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon
"It's a really unwelcome development in the Middle East. The risk of miscalculation is high. That region does not need any more military action, and risk associated with that."
Japan's chief cabinet secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi
"Japan continues to make all necessary diplomatic efforts to prevent the further deterioration of the situation, while implementing every possible measure to ensure the protection of Japanese citizens."
'The IAEA is closely monitoring the deeply concerning situation in Iran. Agency can confirm Natanz site among targets. The Agency is in contact with Iranian authorities regarding radiation levels. We are also in contact with our inspectors in the country.' - DG @rafaelmgrossi — IAEA - International Atomic Energy Agency ⚛️ (@iaeaorg) June 13, 2025
Read: Israel launches strikes on Iran; Tehran braces for retaliatory response
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