The world is holding its breath as leaders respond to President Donald Trump’s announcement that the US has carried out a successful attack on three Iranian nuclear sites, including Fordo.
The news has sent shockwaves across the globe, with nations weighing in on the implications of the attack.
“A Historic Moment” or a Recipe for Disaster?
Trump took to social media to declare the attack a “historic moment” for the US, Israel, and the world, calling on Iran to end the war.
However, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was quick to respond, stating that the attack was “outrageous” and would have “everlasting consequences.”
Araghchi emphasized that Iran reserves the right to defend its sovereignty and interests, citing the UN Charter and international law.
Global Reactions: A Mixed Bag
Reactions from world leaders have been mixed, with some condemning the attack and others calling for calm. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Trump’s “bold decision,” saying it would “change history.”
In contrast, China’s UN Ambassador Fu Cong strongly condemned the attack, calling for an immediate ceasefire and an end to hostilities.
UN Secretary-General Sounds the Alarm
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that the US strikes on Iran represent a “dangerous escalation” in an already volatile region, posing a serious threat to global peace and security.
Guterres emphasized the need for diplomacy, stating that “there is no military solution” and that “the only path forward is peace.”
Europe Calls for Restraint
The European Union’s chief diplomat, Kaja Kallas, urged “all sides to step back, return to the negotiating table, and prevent further escalation.”
Kallas stressed that Iran must not be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon, while also calling for restraint and diplomacy.
A Delicate Balance: Middle Eastern Reactions
In the Middle East, the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed “great concern” over the developments in Iran, while Yemen’s Houthi militant group denounced the US attack as “blatant aggression.”
The Lebanese presidency warned of the risks of escalation, calling for restraint and diplomacy.
Global Voices: A Chorus of Concern
As the situation continues to unfold, leaders from around the world are weighing in. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the need for stability in the region, calling on Tehran to resume negotiations.
Russian senior security official Dmitry Medvedev questioned Trump’s chances of winning the Nobel Peace Prize, given the recent escalation. Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba urged calm, while Venezuela’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Yvan Gil condemned the US attack.
A Growing Concern: The Risk of Escalation
As the international community struggles to come to terms with the implications of the attack, one thing is clear: the situation is highly volatile, and the risk of escalation is very real.
With diplomats scrambling to respond, one thing is certain – the world will be watching closely as this situation continues to unfold.