World Leaders Respond to U.S.-Israel Strikes on Iran
On Saturday, global leaders quickly reacted after the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran, revealing a stark divide among nations. While some countries supported the actions, others warned of the potential for a broader regional conflict.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Foreign Minister Anita Anand expressed strong backing, stating, “Canada supports the United States’ efforts to stop Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and to maintain international peace.” They characterized Iran as a major source of instability in the Middle East, emphasizing that it “must never develop nuclear capabilities.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also showed support on social media, stating, “Australia stands with the brave people of Iran fighting against oppression,” while urging Australians in Iran to stay safe and consider leaving.
The United Kingdom echoed similar sentiments, declaring that Iran “should never develop nuclear weapons.” Prime Minister Keir Starmer mentioned that he was in talks with leaders from France and Germany regarding the situation.
French President Emmanuel Macron cautioned that the conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran could have serious implications for international peace. He called for an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council, insisting that the escalation of violence must cease.
In a collaboration statement, the leaders of France, Germany, and the UK urged Iran to halt its nuclear and ballistic missile programs and to stop its destabilizing activities in the region. Though they did not partake in the strikes, they reaffirmed their commitment to protecting civilian lives and maintaining regional stability, while encouraging negotiations for a peaceful resolution.
European Union’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, labeled the situation as “dangerous,” underscoring that Iran’s weapons programs pose a global threat.
Conversely, Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez openly rejected the strikes, calling the U.S. and Israel’s actions a dangerous escalation that could worsen global tensions.
Gulf states reacted to recent Iranian missile activities, with Saudi Arabia condemning what they called “Iranian aggression” and reaffirming solidarity with neighboring countries. The United Arab Emirates reported a missile attack that killed one civilian and stated they would reserve their rights to respond.
Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry joined in condemning the strikes, urging an immediate return to diplomacy, while China expressed concern and called for respect for Iran’s sovereignty.
Turkish officials held discussions about steps to end the conflict, while Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy connected the strikes to Russia’s actions in Ukraine, supporting the U.S.’s decisive moves against Iran.
Russia criticized the operation, labeling all negotiations with Iran as deceptive.
Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam emphasized the importance of keeping Lebanon out of conflicts threatening its security, and Norway’s Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide stated the strikes did not align with international law.
The situation continues to develop, and world leaders remain on high alert.
