Following US air strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, a wave of international condemnation and concern has emerged, with global leaders calling for de-escalation and a return to diplomacy.
Iranian Foreign Minister wrote on X:
“The United States, a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, has committed a grave violation of the UN Charter, international law and the (nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty) by attacking Iran’s peaceful nuclear installations. The events this morning are outrageous and will have everlasting consequences. Each and every member of the UN must be alarmed over this extremely dangerous, lawless and criminal behaviour. In accordance with the UN Charter and its provisions allowing a legitimate response in self-defence, Iran reserves all options to defend its sovereignty, interest, and people.”
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended the US action, stating that Washington acted to “reduce the threat” posed by Iran.
“Iran’s nuclear programme is a serious danger to international security,” Starmer said, stressing that the world cannot allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons.
He urged Tehran to return to the negotiating table to seek a diplomatic solution to the crisis.
In contrast, several countries strongly condemned the US strikes.
Cuba’s President Miguel Díaz-Canel termed the air strikes a gross violation of the UN Charter, warning that such actions are pushing humanity toward an “irreversible crisis.”
Chilean President Gabriel Boric called the attack illegal, asserting that “power does not grant anyone the license to violate international law.”
Mexico’s Foreign Ministry emphasized the need for immediate dialogue to reduce tensions, stating, “Peace must be our top priority.”
Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil demanded an immediate end to all hostile actions in the region.
New Zealand’s Foreign Minister described the ongoing military developments in the Middle East as “extremely concerning and dangerous.”
The backlash reflects mounting global anxiety over a potential wider conflict in the Middle East, as fears grow that further escalation could destabilize not only the region but the entire global order.
Diplomatic efforts are now gaining urgency, with international actors pushing for restraint, dialogue, and a peaceful resolution.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres issued a statement, raising concerns over the rising escalations and the possible risk of large-scale war. He said, “This is a dangerous escalation in a region already on the edge – and a direct threat to international peace and security. There is a growing risk that this conflict could rapidly get out of control, with catastrophic consequences for civilians, the region, and the world. I call on Member States to de-escalate and to uphold their obligations under the UN Charter and other rules of international law.”
