Officials from across the globe are weighing in on the rising tensions between Israel and Iran on June 13, a day after Israel struck military targets in Iran.
Officials from across the globe are weighing in on the rising tensions between Israel and Iran on June 13, a day after Israel struck military targets in Iran. Most nations are calling on both sides to exercise restraint in order to avoid a wider conflict.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte mentioned the need for allies to work together to “de-escalate the situation.” Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson warned that the region is already “heated enough,” and stressed that decisions must be made by countries in the region themselves.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the strikes were “concerning,” urging all sides “to step back and reduce tensions urgently.” India said it is closely monitoring developments and highlighted its “close and friendly” ties with both Israel and Iran.
In the Gulf, the United Arab Emirates urged the UN Security Council to take “urgent and necessary measures” to achieve a cease-fire, while Saudi Arabia issued a strong condemnation of Israel’s actions.
Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had informed him of the strikes. Merz affirmed Israel’s right to self-defense but called on both sides to avoid further escalation. Meanwhile, Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong said that Canberra was “alarmed” by the situation and urged all parties to return to dialogue and diplomacy.
