Global Outcry: Calls for Restraint Amid Israeli Strikes on Iran

The Israeli military has launched a series of coordinated strikes on military bases across Iran, targeting approximately 20 locations over several hours in regions including Ilam, Khuzestan, and the capital, Tehran. This operation represents a significant escalation in the already heightened tensions between the two nations.

In response to the attacks, Iranian officials confirmed that military bases were indeed targeted but claimed that the strikes resulted in only “limited damage.” The Israeli army announced the completion of its operation, with military spokesman Daniel Hagari asserting that should Iran attempt retaliatory strikes, Israel would be “obligated to respond” decisively.

Iran’s air defense headquarters reported that the “aggressive action” was met with a successful interception and counteraction by the country’s integrated air defense system, highlighting their readiness to defend against aerial threats.

The international community has reacted with concern and alarm to these developments. Here are some notable responses from around the world:

United States

“We urge Iran to cease its attacks on Israel so that this cycle of violence can end without further escalation,” stated Sean Savett, spokesman for the U.S. National Security Council, during a press briefing. He emphasized that Israel’s response was a legitimate exercise of self-defense, carefully avoiding populated areas and concentrating exclusively on military targets. This stands in stark contrast to Iran’s recent actions, which included attacks on Israel’s most densely populated city.

Savett further clarified that the United States did not take part in the Israeli operation. “Our primary goal is to accelerate diplomatic efforts and reduce tensions in the Middle East,” he added, underlining the U.S. commitment to peaceful resolution.

A senior official from the White House indicated that the Biden administration views the Israeli military action as a means to “close out” the direct military confrontation between Israel and Iran. The official noted that President Joe Biden was kept informed throughout the operation as it unfolded, ensuring that the administration was aware of developments in real-time.

In a related statement, Pentagon spokesman Patrick Ryder took to X to share that Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin had communicated with his Israeli counterpart, Yoav Gallant. During their conversation, Austin reaffirmed the U.S.’s “ironclad commitment” to Israel’s security and its inherent right to self-defense. This continued support underscores the close military alliance between the two nations amid escalating tensions in the region.

Saudi Arabia

Condemning Israel’s military actions as a “violation of its sovereignty” and a breach of international laws, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia has called on all parties involved to “exercise the utmost restraint and reduce escalation.” In an official statement, the ministry reaffirmed the Kingdom’s strong stance against the ongoing hostilities, emphasizing its rejection of the escalating tensions that threaten the security and stability of both the region and its peoples.

“The Kingdom affirms its firm position in its rejection of the continued escalation in the region and the expansion of the conflict,” the statement continued, highlighting the potential risks that such actions pose to regional stability.

In recent months, there have been noteworthy improvements in relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran, marked by high-level meetings and diplomatic engagements. In 2023, the two nations reached a significant agreement to re-establish diplomatic relations and reopen their embassies, a deal facilitated by negotiations in China. This development represents a hopeful shift towards greater cooperation and dialogue between the historically adversarial countries, indicating a mutual desire to address regional issues peacefully.

Iraq

“The occupying Zionist entity persists in its aggressive policies, exacerbating regional conflicts through unabashed attacks carried out without consequence,” said government spokesman Basim Alawadi, condemning “the international community’s silence” regarding Israeli actions.

A statement from the prime minister’s office emphasized that Iraq “reiterates its strong position calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, as well as for comprehensive regional and international efforts to promote stability in the area.”

Hamas

The Palestinian group condemned “the Zionist aggression” directed at Iran.

They stated, “This represents a blatant violation of Iranian sovereignty and an escalation that jeopardizes regional security and the safety of its people. The occupation bears full responsibility for the consequences of this aggression, which is backed by the United States.”