A variety of nations are responding to Israel’s military strikes on Iran, with many voicing criticism of the actions taken.
According to SUMMITPOST, Israel executed multiple airstrikes on Iran during the early hours of Friday.
The Israeli military announced that they had initiated a “pre-emptive, precise, combined offensive based on high-quality intelligence,” known as Operation Rising Lion.
China
The Chinese embassy in Iran characterised the situation as severe and complex, advising Chinese nationals in the country to stay informed about developments and to enhance their own security measures.
United States
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the US was not involved in the strikes conducted by Israel. He emphasised that “our top priority is protecting American forces in the region.”
United Nations
Antonio Guterres, the UN Secretary-General, condemned any military escalation in the Middle East. A spokesperson for Guterres, in a statement reported by Reuters, urged both sides to show restraint.
India
India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, mentioned that the country was closely monitoring the situation as it unfolds. He encouraged both sides to avoid further escalation, highlighting India’s “close and friendly” relations with both Israel and Iran.
Saudi Arabia
Conversely, Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry expressed strong condemnation of the actions taken, labelling the strike as blatant Israeli aggression. The Ministry stated that it undermines Iran’s sovereignty and security, constituting a clear breach of international laws and norms.”