Israel and US Strike Iran: Global Leaders Call for Restraint

By Ahmet Taş | Wise News Press

TEHRAN, IRAN — International leaders have expressed urgent concern following joint air strikes by Israel and the United States on Iran, with France calling for an emergency UN Security Council session.

The offensive, which targeted approximately 500 strategic sites across Iran, has triggered immediate diplomatic fallout regarding international law, nuclear safety, and the imminent risk of a full-scale regional conflict. As Tehran vows to retaliate against any base involved in the operation, world capitals are scrambling to prevent the situation from spiraling into a systemic Middle Eastern war.

European Union Urges Maximum Restraint

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen issued a call for "maximum" restraint from all parties involved following the joint operation. "The developments are extremely worrying. Civilians must be protected and international law must be fully applied," von der Leyen stated, emphasizing that the EU would take all necessary steps to support its citizens in the region.

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas characterized the situation in the Middle East as "dangerous." She announced that the EU would assist in the evacuation of its citizens and that non-essential personnel would be withdrawn from the area. Furthermore, EU Council President António Costa and von der Leyen highlighted the uncertainty regarding Iran's nuclear activities, urging all actors to avoid steps that would increase tensions and to maintain policies preventing the proliferation of nuclear weapons.

France Calls for Emergency UN Meeting

French President Emmanuel Macron has called for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council, warning that a war between the US, Israel, and Iran would have "serious consequences" for international peace and security. Macron asserted that the current tension is dangerous for everyone and must be halted immediately.

"The Iranian regime must understand that it has no other choice but to enter into good-faith negotiations to end its nuclear and ballistic missile programs and its actions aimed at destabilizing the region," Macron stated.

He added that France is ready to provide the necessary means to protect its closest partners if requested.

Regional Warnings of a 'Regional Fire'

The United Kingdom warned that the tension in the region could escalate into a large-scale conflict. Prime Minister Keir Starmer convened the national crisis center (COBRA) early in the morning to address the severity of the situation. A government spokesperson noted that London does not want the region to be dragged into a new war and continues to support diplomatic negotiations, particularly regarding Iran’s nuclear program.

The British government also urged its citizens in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates to immediately take shelter in secure indoor locations. In contrast, Norway harshly criticized the air strikes, stating that the attack was incompatible with international law. Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide argued that Israel's definition of the strike as a "preemptive hit" was not legally valid, noting that such a strike requires proof of an imminent and direct threat, which he claimed was not present in this case.

Russia Condemns 'Dangerous Adventure'

The Russian Foreign Ministry strongly condemned the strikes, describing the US and Israeli actions as a "dangerous adventure." The ministry stated that the move brought the region to the brink of a "humanitarian, economic, and even radiological disaster." According to the Russian statement, the goal of the attack was to "destroy the constitutional order of a country that does not submit to them."

Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev targeted the US administration, claiming that diplomatic talks with Iran were merely a "cover" for the eventual military action. Russia also warned its citizens in both Tehran and Tel Aviv to leave the countries if possible and to stay away from military facilities.

Ukraine Blames Iranian Leadership

In a contrasting stance, Ukraine expressed support for the Iranian people but placed the responsibility for the escalation on the Iranian government. The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused Tehran of ignoring diplomatic paths through its policies of violence and oppression.

The ministry further cited Iran's human rights violations, its support for armed groups in neighboring countries, and its assistance to Russia in the war against Ukraine as reasons for the current crisis. Kyiv also noted that the "preemptive strike" by Israel and the US followed nuclear talks held between the US and Iran just two days prior.

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