World leaders continue to speak out after US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran, moves that have caused Tehran to respond across the Middle East. Some of Washington's allies expressed concern about the risk of escalation.
European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the attacks "seriously worrying", calling on all parties to exercise maximum restraint, protect civilians and fully respect international law.
French President Emmanuel Macron warned that the outbreak of war between the US, Israel and Iran will have serious consequences for international peace and security. He said that the current escalation is dangerous for all parties and must end, and called on Iran to participate in goodwill negotiations to end its nuclear and ballistic missile programs as well as destabilizing activities in the region.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez declared that his country opposes unilateral military actions by the US and Israel because they increase tensions and make international order more uncertain and hostile. He also opposed the actions of the Iranian government and the Revolutionary Guard Corps, emphasizing that the Middle East cannot endure another prolonged and devastating war.
Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla condemned the attacks by the US and Israel, saying that these are irresponsible actions, violating international peace and security and the United Nations Charter.
Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot expressed regret that diplomatic efforts have not soon brought about a solution through negotiations, and affirmed that Belgium understands the deep security concerns as well as the prolonged disappointment with Iran's constructive refusal to participate.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney declared his support for the US in preventing Iran from possessing nuclear weapons and preventing threats to international peace and security, and identified Iran as the main source of instability and terrorism in the Middle East.
The Japanese Foreign Ministry said that the Middle East situation has a significant impact on Japan, including energy security, and is closely monitoring developments with great concern. Russian diplomat Mikhail Ulyanov warned that the actions of the US and Israel risk degrading and destabilizing the region more seriously.
