Tehran (TDI): Israel launched a wave of military strikes on Saturday, targeting bases across Ilam, Khuzestan, and Tehran in Iran.
The escalation, confirmed by Iran as causing “limited damage,” has ignited widespread condemnation and calls for de-escalation from countries around the world.
The Israeli army declared the operation complete but issued a stern warning.
Military spokesperson Daniel Hagari stated that if Iran retaliates, “Israel will be obligated to respond.”
Meanwhile, Iran’s air defense reported intercepting and countering what it described as an “aggressive action.”
Here is how the world has responded to the developments:
Pakistan
Islamabad’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs termed the strikes a “grave violation” of international law, urging the United Nations Security Council to intervene.
Pakistan’s statement held Israel responsible for the potential destabilization of the region.
United States
Washington urged restraint, emphasizing Israel’s right to self-defense while distancing itself from the operation.
National Security Council spokesperson Sean Savett stressed the U.S. aim to foster diplomacy and avoid further escalation, adding that Israel had focused solely on military targets.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin reiterated support for Israel’s security in a call with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant.
Qatar
The Qatari government condemned the strikes as a violation of Iran’s sovereignty and international law, urging all parties to exercise restraint.
Its Ministry of Foreign Affairs called for efforts to de-escalate tensions and end the suffering in Gaza and Lebanon.
Saudi Arabia
Riyadh similarly condemned the attack, voicing concerns about regional instability.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to de-escalation, citing the recently improved diplomatic relations with Iran following a 2023 agreement brokered by China.
Iraq
Baghdad denounced the strikes as part of Israel’s “aggressive policies” in the region.
Prime Minister’s spokesperson Basim Alawadi urged the international community to act, reiterating Iraq’s call for a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon.
Hamas
The Palestinian group condemned the airstrikes, calling them a violation of Iranian sovereignty.
Hamas attributed the escalation to Israel, accusing it of destabilizing regional security.
United Kingdom
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer urged Iran to refrain from retaliating, advocating restraint from all parties involved.
Starmer reiterated support for Israel’s self-defense while warning against further escalation.
United Arab Emirates
The UAE expressed concern over the escalation’s impact on regional security, urging restraint and wisdom to prevent further conflict.
Oman
Muscat condemned the strikes as a violation of Iran’s sovereignty, underscoring that continued aggression undermines efforts at de-escalation.
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur described the strikes as a clear violation of international law, calling for an immediate halt to hostilities to prevent further violence in an already volatile region.
The world’s calls for restraint come as tensions between Israel and Iran show no signs of abating, with global leaders voicing concerns over the conflict’s potential to expand into a wider regional crisis.
