Israel strikes Iran's nuke sites in surprise raid — US, China, Russia, and others react strongly
Israel's recent air strikes on Iran have triggered sharp international responses, as several nations and organisations called for restraint while condemning the attack. The Israeli military confirmed it had targeted nuclear sites and military installations in Iran early Friday morning, killing several senior Iranian figures. At least 50 civilians were also reported injured.
Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called the attack a 'crime' and warned Israel of 'severe punishment.' Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the strikes would continue 'as long as necessary.'
Below is how different countries and global institutions responded to the development.
UN and IAEA call for restraint
UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for 'maximum restraint' and said he was concerned about Israeli attacks while negotiations on Iran's nuclear programme were ongoing. His spokesperson stated that the Secretary-General condemned any military escalation in the Middle East.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) also reacted strongly. Its chief, Rafael Grossi, said nuclear facilities 'must never be attacked' and called the incident deeply concerning. 'Any military action that jeopardises the safety of nuclear facilities risks grave consequences for Iran, the region, and beyond,' he said.
There have been fresh attacks by Israel on Natanz, Iran's largest nuclear enrichment facility in the central Isfahan province, Iranian state media reported.#tahran#Tehran #war #Israel #IsraeliranWar pic.twitter.com/ATFXL5Fp3g
NATO and US emphasise de-escalation
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said allies, including the US, should focus on de-escalation. 'This was a unilateral action by Israel,' Rutte stated, acknowledging the situation was 'rapidly evolving.'
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the US was not involved in the strike and reiterated that Washington's top priority was the safety of its forces. 'Israel informed us that the strikes were necessary for its self-defence,' Rubio stated. He warned Iran not to target US personnel or interests.
Neighbouring countries strongly condemn Israel's action
Iraq's Prime Minister condemned the Israeli air strikes, labelling them a violation of international law and a threat to global peace. The Iraqi statement called it a 'blatant violation of the UN Charter.'
Oman, a mediator in US-Iran nuclear talks, described the strikes as a 'dangerous and reckless escalation' and said Israel was responsible for the consequences of its actions.
Turkiye called the attack a provocation and urged Israel to halt military operations. Its foreign ministry said the strike showed a lack of interest in diplomacy.
Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and UAE respond with concern
Saudi Arabia condemned the 'heinous' Israeli attacks, saying they violated Iranian sovereignty and broke international laws. The Saudi statement urged the UN Security Council to intervene.
Qatar also criticised the 'flagrant violation' of Iran's sovereignty and demanded an immediate halt to the escalation.
United Arab Emirates called for restraint and encouraged diplomacy over military responses. It urged all parties to show 'wise judgment.'
Jordan, Pakistan, and China highlight regional risks
Jordan closed its airspace following the strikes and clarified that its territory would not be used for any conflict.
Pakistan's Foreign Minister called the Israeli strikes 'unjustified' and reiterated support for Iran. The foreign ministry said the attack threatened regional and global stability.
China expressed 'deep concern' about the potential consequences and urged all parties to avoid escalation. Beijing said it was prepared to support efforts to calm the situation.
Russia, EU, and France emphasise diplomacy
Russia condemned the escalation and voiced concern about increased tensions.
European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas urged all parties to 'exercise restraint.' She stressed diplomacy as the preferred solution.
France reaffirmed Israel's right to self-defence but also warned against actions that could threaten regional stability. Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot called for restraint and repeated France's concerns about Iran's nuclear ambitions.
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