‘Avoid escalation’: World reacts to Israel strike on Iran
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called this a "decisive moment in Israel’s history".
PHOTO: REUTERS
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Israel said early on June 13 it struck Iranian nuclear targets
Calling it a “decisive moment in Israel’s history”, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel was also targeting Iranian scientists working on a nuclear bomb and missile factories in an operation that would continue for days.
Israel declared a state of emergency in anticipation of retaliatory missile and drone strikes by Tehran.
Here are some reactions from top officials and governments around the world:
Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Singapore is deeply concerned about the escalation of tensions in the region. We urge all parties to exercise restraint and to de-escalate.
US President Donald Trump
“There has already been great death and destruction, but there is still time to make this slaughter, with the next already planned attacks being even more brutal, come to an end.”
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.”
Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres
“The Secretary-General condemns any military escalation in the Middle East. He is particularly concerned by Israeli attacks on nuclear installations in Iran while talks between Iran and the United States on the status of Iran’s nuclear programme are under way.
“The Secretary-General asks both sides to show maximum restraint, avoiding at all costs a descent into deeper conflict, a situation that the region can hardly afford.”
Nato Secretary-General Mark Rutte
“This was a unilateral action by Israel. So I think it is crucial for many allies, including the United States, to work as we speak to de-escalate.”
Saudi Arabia
“Saudi Arabia expresses its strong condemnation and denunciation of the blatant Israeli aggression against the brotherly Islamic Republic of Iran, which undermine its sovereignty and security and constitute a clear violation of international laws and norms.”
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer
“Escalation serves no one in the region. Stability in the Middle East must be the priority and we are engaging partners to de-escalate. Now is the time for restraint, calm and a return to diplomacy.”
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz
“We call on both sides to refrain from steps that could lead to further escalation and destabilise the entire region.”
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot
“We call on all parties to exercise restraint and avoid any escalation that could compromise regional stability.
“We have repeatedly expressed our serious concerns regarding Iran’s nuclear programme, notably in the resolution recently adopted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). We reaffirm Israel’s right to defend itself against any attack.”
Russian Foreign Ministry
“Unprovoked military strikes against a sovereign UN member state, its citizens, peaceful cities and nuclear energy infrastructure are categorically unacceptable.”
European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas
“The situation in the Middle East is dangerous. I urge all parties to exercise restraint and prevent further escalation. Diplomacy remains the best path forward, and I stand ready to support any diplomatic efforts toward de-escalation.”
International Atomic Energy Agency head Rafael Grossi
“This development is deeply concerning... I reiterate that any military action that jeopardises the safety and security of nuclear facilities risks grave consequences for the people of Iran, the region, and beyond.”
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian
“China opposes the violation of Iran’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, opposes the intensification of contradictions, the expansion of conflicts, and the sudden rise in temperature of the regional situation.
“China calls on all parties concerned to do more things that promote regional peace and stability and avoid further escalation of the tense situation. China is willing to play a constructive role in easing the situation.”
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.”
Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry
“The attack risks exacerbating existing regional tensions and could potentially trigger a broader conflict. All parties must exercise the utmost restraint and avoid any actions that might escalate tensions or cause further instability.” REUTERS
