Israel attacks Iran’s nuclear installations; world pleads restraint
In the early hours of Friday, Israel executed a “preemptive strike” on Iran’s nuclear sites, resulting in the deaths of two Iranian generals. Countries around the globe have responded to the attack as tensions heightened regarding Tehran’s swiftly progressing nuclear programme. The strike occurred a day following warnings from United States and European officials regarding a potential Israeli offensive. On Thursday (local time), US President Donald Trump declared the withdrawal of American troops from West Asia.
Saudi Arabia has expressed its condemnation of the Israeli attack. In a statement reflecting significant disapproval, Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry utilized X to characterize the incident as “blatant Israeli aggression”. The statement indicated that the attack compromised Iran’s “sovereignty and security and constitutes a clear violation of international laws and norms.”
The United States is distancing itself from the strikes carried out by Israel. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the United States was not involved in Israel’s actions. In a statement, he emphasized, “Our top priority is protecting American forces in the region.”
India advocates for restraint while maintaining strong relations with both nations. India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the country was “closely monitoring the evolving situation, including reports related to attacks on nuclear sites.” He noted that India calls on both parties to refrain from escalating tensions, as it maintains “close and friendly” relations with both Israel and Iran. The Indian Embassy in Iran has issued an advisory for all Indian nationals and individuals of Indian origin, urging them to exercise vigilance and recommending that they refrain from any unnecessary movement.
Islamabad has issued a condemnation of the Israeli attack on Iran. In a statement, Pakistan’s foreign office condemned the attack on Iran, asserting that the military strikes by Israel violated the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Iran, contravening the UN Charter and fundamental principles of international law. In a show of support for Iran, Pakistan, which does not acknowledge Israel, declared that it stands “in resolute solidarity” with the Iranian populace and categorically condemns “these blatant provocations, which constitute a grave danger and a serious threat to the peace, security, and stability of the entire region and beyond, with serious implications”.
China expresses concern over the deteriorating crisis. In response to the unfolding events, China’s embassy in Iran characterized the situation as “severe and complex.” It called on Chinese citizens to closely observe developments and bolster their security measures, which includes steering clear of sensitive or crowded locations.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged Israel and Iran to demonstrate restraint. A representative for Guterres remarked that the UN chief “condemns any military escalation in the Middle East.”
Australia and New Zealand advocate for diplomatic solutions. Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong expressed that the country was “alarmed by the escalation between Israel and Iran”. She emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy for both parties, stating, “This risks further destabilising a region that is already volatile.”
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon characterized the developments as “a really unwelcome development in the Middle East.” Regarding the US-Iran nuclear discussions set for 15 June in Oman, Luxon indicated that it is currently uncertain if the talks will take place.
Iran responds with a drone offensive. In response to the Israeli strike, which was part of an operation it referred to as “Rising Lion,” Iran executed a counteraction by deploying 100 drones aimed at Israeli locations. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei declared “severe punishment”, asserting that Israel “opened its wicked and blood-stained hand to a crime in our beloved country, revealing its malicious nature more than ever by striking residential centres”.
