The African Union (AU) expressed deep concern over military strikes carried out by the United States in coordination with Israel against targets inside Iran, warning the actions could further destabilise the Middle East.
In a statement on Saturday, AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Youssouf said he was “deeply concerned by the reported military strikes carried out by the United States in coordination with Israeli forces against targets inside the Islamic Republic of Iran, an escalation that marks a serious intensification of hostilities in the Middle East.”
He called for “restraint, urgent de-escalation, and sustained dialogue,” urging all parties to “act fully in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter to safeguard international peace and security.”
Join our WhatsApp ChannelYoussouf warned that further escalation “threatens to worsen global instability, with serious implications for energy markets, food security, and economic resilience — particularly in Africa, where conflict and economic pressures remain acute.”
He urged concerned actors to prioritise diplomatic engagement, including international mediation efforts facilitated by the Sultanate of Oman, and stressed that “sustainable peace can only be achieved through diplomacy, not through force.”
European Union leaders also voiced concern. European Council President António Costa said the developments in Iran were “greatly concerning” and reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to regional security, nuclear safety, and adherence to international law.
The statements follow a wave of strikes on Saturday by the United States and Israel against Iranian cities, causing explosions and smoke in Tehran. US President Donald Trump said the operations targeted “imminent threats” from Iran, while Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described the attacks as a “preventive strike.”
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Trump said in a video message, “The United States’ military began major combat operations in Iran. We are going to destroy their missiles and raze their missile industry to the ground… We’re going to annihilate their navy.”
Prosper Okoye is a Correspondent and Research Writer at Prime Business Africa, a Nigerian journalist with experience in development reporting, public affairs, and policy-focused storytelling across Africa
