Fazal Khaliq
April 19, 2024 – Israel’s unprecedented direct attack on Iranian soil has triggered a wave of international reactions, ranging from outright condemnation to calls for restraint, as leaders scramble to prevent a wider Middle East war. Here are key responses:
- United States: Denial & Warning
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio: “The United States was not involved in today’s strikes against Iran. Israel acted in self-defense against an imminent threat… ‘Let me be clear: Iran should not target U.S. interests or personnel.’ We are focused on protecting American forces.”
- President Donald Trump (to Fox News): “Iran cannot have a nuclear bomb. We’re watching closely, hoping to get back to the table. We will see.” (Convened National Security Council)
- United Nations: Urgent Plea for Restraint
- UN Secretary-General António Guterres (via spokesperson): “The Secretary-General condemns any military escalation and urges maximum restraint. Avoiding deeper conflict is paramount. The region cannot afford another war.” (Security Council emergency session expected)
- Iran: Vows Severe Revenge
- Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei: “The Zionist regime unleashed its wicked and bloody hand in a heinous crime… ‘It will receive a bitter fate for itself.’ The criminals will regret this.”
- Foreign Ministry Spokesman: “This cowardly aggression will not go unanswered. Israel and its supporters bear full responsibility for the consequences.”
- Pakistan: Strong Condemnation
- Foreign Ministry Statement: “Pakistan ‘strongly condemns the unjustified and illegitimate aggression by Israel’ against Iran. This is a violation of sovereignty and international law, threatening regional peace.” (Activated crisis cell for citizens in Iran)
- Jordan & Iraq: Securing Sovereignty
- Jordanian Government Spokesman: “Jordan has not and will not allow any violation of its airspace. The Kingdom will not be a battleground for any conflict.” (Closed airspace, activated sirens in Amman)
- Iraqi Transport Ministry: Announced immediate closure of Iraqi airspace, citing “precautionary measures” against regional escalation.
- Russia: Implied Criticism & Concern
- Kremlin Spokesman (Dmitry Peskov): “We are deeply concerned by this dangerous escalation. Further destabilization in the Middle East is unacceptable. All parties must show restraint.” (Implied blame on Israel without naming it)
- European Union: Divided Anxiety
- EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell: “This attack marks a severe escalation with unpredictable consequences. We call on ALL parties to avoid actions that could spiral into regional war. Diplomacy must prevail.” (Emergency EU meeting called)
- Germany/France/UK: Issued coordinated statements expressing “grave concern,” urging de-escalation. No direct condemnation of Israel.
- Saudi Arabia & UAE: Silent Alarm
- Unofficial GCC Channels: Expressing “extreme anxiety” privately. Publicly silent, focused on securing air traffic (Emirates cancelled Iran/Iraq flights).
- China: Call for Calm
- Foreign Ministry Spokesman: “China is deeply concerned about the current escalation. We urge relevant parties to exercise calm and restraint to prevent further deterioration of the situation.”
