World Leaders Respond to US and Israeli Attacks on Iran
After the recent US and Israeli strikes on Iran, world leaders quickly expressed their positions, highlighting significant global divisions. Some governments showed support for the attacks, while others cautioned about the potential for escalating conflict in the region.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Foreign Minister Anita Anand articulated their backing: “Canada stands by the United States in its efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon and to prevent the Iranian regime from further threatening international peace and security.” They pointed out that Iran is “a major source of instability and terrorism across the Middle East,” underscoring the need to prevent it from obtaining nuclear capabilities.
In Australia, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also voiced support for the US action. He noted on X that “Australia stands with the brave Iranian people in their fight against oppression.” However, he activated emergency consular measures and encouraged Australians in Iran to exit if it was safely possible.
Britain joined the chorus of condemnation, emphasizing that Iran “should never be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.” British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office mentioned he spoke with the leaders of France and Germany in alignment with their allies.
French President Emmanuel Macron warned of the grave implications if war erupted between the US, Israel, and Iran. His appeal for an urgent UN Security Council meeting reflected concerns that the ongoing escalation could be detrimental for international peace.
Kaja Karas, the EU’s Head of Foreign Policy, stated that Iran’s “ballistic missile and nuclear programs… pose a serious threat to global security.” He stressed the importance of civilian protection and adherence to international humanitarian law.
In contrast, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez rejected the idea of unilateral military actions by the US and Israel, suggesting such approaches would exacerbate conflict and contribute to an uncertain international landscape.
Meanwhile, Gulf nations responded to Iran’s missile activity. The Saudi Foreign Ministry condemned Iran’s actions, citing violations of the sovereignty of multiple Gulf states and expressing solidarity with those nations. They warned about serious repercussions if the violations continued.
In a statement addressing the recent missile attacks, the UAE Ministry of Defense reported that Iranian ballistic missiles had targeted the country, resulting in one civilian death and damage to property. They classified the incidents as dangerous escalations that jeopardize civilian safety.
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister strongly condemned the attacks on Iran and called for an urgent return to diplomatic relations. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan initiated discussions with regional counterparts focused on finding measures to halt the strikes.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy linked these developments to Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, emphasizing that while Ukrainians have never threatened Iran, the Iranian government has collaborated with Russia by supplying drones used against his country. He urged for decisive action from the US, suggesting that American resolve tends to deter global threats.
Russia sharply criticized the operations, with Dmitry Medvedev expressing skepticism that negotiations with Iran were anything more than a facade.
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam also cautioned against any actions that could jeopardize the nation’s security and unity.
The Norwegian Foreign Minister termed the attack a “violation of international law,” signifying yet another critical viewpoint on the unfolding situation.
