Victor EzejaThe United States has distanced itself from the Israeli attacks on nuclear installations in Iran.
This is as mixed reactions from world powers have trailed the attacks on Iran. While some expressed condemnation of the attack, others seemingly supported Israel, and called for de-escalation of the conflict.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelPrime Business Africa reports that Israel carried out a series of attacks on different locations in Iran overnight, including nuclear sites.
Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations described the strikes as a “necessary action” after the “Iranian threat took a dramatic turn” in recent months.
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) said it carried out strikes on nuclear sites and that the Revolutionary Guard chief, Hossein Salami and other commanders have been killed.
Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, said the operations will continue for as many days as it takes to remove what he described as “threat.”
Responding, Iran vowed to retaliate, threatening that it would be destructive.
“The Zionist regime has committed a crime in our dear country today, at dawn, with its satanic, blood-stained hands,” Ali Hosseini Khamenei, the Supreme Leader stated.
In a statement, the U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio described Israel’s attack on Iran as a “unilateral action.”
“Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against lran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region,” Rubio stated.
However, the U.S. President Donald Trump, while reacting to the news of the incident, urged Iran to make a deal over its nuclear programme, saying that the coming attacks may be more “ brutal.”
“I told them, in the strongest of words, to just do it, but no matter how hard they tried, no matter how close they got, they just couldn’t get it done,” Trump stated on social media.
“There has already been great death and destruction, but there is still time to make this slaughter, with the next already planned attacks being even more brutal, come to an end.
“Iran must make a deal, before there is nothing left, and save what was once known as the Iranian Empire. No more death, no more destruction, JUST DO IT, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE,” Trump further stated.
Trump, who earlier said he was aware of Israel’s plans before they launched strikes overnight, however, made it clear the US military played no part in the operation.
The United Nations Secretary-general, Anthonio Gurrres, expressed concerns about the Israeli attacks on Iran.
A statement from his office said: “The Secretary-General (Antonio Guterres) condemns any military escalation in the Middle East.
“He is particularly concerned by Israeli attacks on nuclear installations in Iran while talks between Iran and the United States on the status of Iran’s nuclear programme are underway.”
On its part the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) also described Israel’s action as “a unilateral one” and emphasised the need for efforts to resolve the tension.
“This was a unilateral action by Israel. So I think it is crucial for many allies, including the United States, to work as we speak to de-escalate,” said Mark Rutte, NATO Secretary General.
China
On its part, China opposed the attack, stating that it is a violation of Iran’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry further said it “opposes the intensification of contradictions, the expansion of conflicts, and the sudden rise in temperature of the regional situation.”
Czech Republic
Czech Republic’s Foreign Minister, Jan Lipavsky, said: “So l have a great deal of understanding for.. military action to deter the production of a nuclear bomb in the region.
Germany
Germany, however, backed Israel on the attacks, stating that Israel has the right to defend its territory.
“Berlin backs “Israel’s right to defend its existence and the security of its citizens,” urges both Israel and Iran to avoid any “further escalation,” Friedrich Merz, German Chancellor stated.
Russia
Russia condemned the attack and urged efforts to de-escalate the situation.
“Foreign Ministry condemns sharp escalation, warns citizens to refrain from visiting Israel and recommends those already in the country leave if possible,” it stated.
France
France is another European country that backed Israel’s action.
“We reaffirm Israel’s right to defend itself against any attack,” Jean-Noel Barrot, Foreign Minister stated.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom (UK) remains neutral, calling for restraint in handling the situation. “Now is the time for restraint, calm and a return to diplomacy,” UK Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, stated.
Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Oman condemns the attack
The Arab countries of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Oman also condemned the attacks, saying the act threatens the security and stability of the region and also violates principles of international laws and norms and the sovereignty of Iran.
“Dangerous escalation threatens security and stability of the region and hinders efforts to de-escalate and reach diplomatic solutions,” Qatar stated.
“Saudi Arabia expresses its strong condemnation and denunciation of the blatant lsrael’s aggressions against the brotherly Islamic Republic of Iran, which undermine its sovereignty and security and constitute a clear violation of international laws and norms.”
“Oman considers this act a dangerous, reckless escalation representing a flagrant violation of the United Nations Charter, the principles of international law.”
Hamas
Hamas also joined other countries in the Arab world in condemning Israel’s attack on Iran saying: “This aggression constitutes a dangerous escalation that threatens to destabilise the region. Today, Iran is paying the price for its steadfast stance in support of Palestine and its resistance.”
Jordan
Jordan said it “has not and will not allow any violation of its airspace, reaffirming that the Kingdom will not be a battleground for any conflict.”
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with seven years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Master's degree in Mass Communication.
