DUBAI, June 22: The recent U.S. airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear sites have sparked widespread international concern, with many nations urging restraint and a return to diplomacy to prevent a wider Middle East conflict. Ordered by President Donald Trump shortly after he suggested possible U.S. involvement in Israel’s war with Tehran, the strikes have heightened fears of escalation. While some close U.S. allies acknowledge the threat posed by Iran’s nuclear program, most stress the urgent need for negotiations.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep alarm, warning of a rapidly escalating conflict with catastrophic consequences. He called on all member states to de-escalate tensions, emphasizing that “there is no military solution” and diplomacy is the only way forward.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmerhighlighted the threat of escalation beyond the region and urged diplomatic talks to maintain stability. The European Union, along with France and Germany, reiterated calls for restraint and negotiations, with European Council President Antonio Costa stressing respect for international law and nuclear safety.
Russia condemned the strikes as a serious violation of international law. Deputy Security Council head Dmitry Medvedev claimed other countries may now supply Iran with nuclear weapons. China also denounced the U.S. action, calling for a ceasefire and renewed dialogue, particularly urging Israel to avoid further escalation.
Middle Eastern nations voiced deep concern. Iraq condemned the strikes as a threat to regional peace and security. Egypt warned of “grave repercussions,” while Lebanese President Joseph Aoun cautioned the bombing could spark an uncontrollable regional conflict. Saudi Arabia, though not condemning the strikes outright, called for restraint and de-escalation. Qatar, hosting a major U.S. base and mediating regional conflicts, urged all parties to avoid further escalation.
Pro-Iranian groups, including Hamas and Yemen’s Houthi rebels, condemned the strikes and called for united resistance against U.S. and Israeli actions. These groups form part of Iran’s regional “Axis of Resistance.”
Pakistan condemned the strikes as a violation of international law, while Japan stressed the importance of preventing Iran’s nuclear development and called for calm, though its prime minister avoided endorsing the U.S. attacks.
In Latin America, left-wing governments such as Venezuela, Colombia, Chile, and Mexico strongly opposed the strikes, calling for peace and labeling the attacks illegal. Conversely, Argentina’s libertarian President Javier Milei praised the strikes as a stand against terrorism.
Pope Leo XIV urged peace in a Sunday address, calling on the international community to silence weapons and act responsibly to prevent war. Despite differing views, the global consensus emphasizes diplomacy as the critical path to avoid devastating conflict in the Middle East. (AP)
