World raps US for Iran strikes, warns of ‘irreversible’ consequences
World leaders and officials reacted sharply Sunday to the United States’ airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, carried out early June 22 at the direction of President Donald Trump. The strikes hit key facilities in Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow, escalating tensions across the Middle East and sparking international condemnation and calls for restraint.
Saudi Arabia denounced the US strikes as a “violation of sovereignty,” urging the international community to “redouble efforts” toward a diplomatic resolution. The Saudi foreign ministry warned of “serious consequences” for regional peace.
Qatar called the assault a “dangerous tension” and warned of “catastrophic repercussions.” On social media, its foreign ministry said the escalation threatens both “regional and international stability.
The United Arab Emirates expressed “deep concern” and urged the UN Security Council to “assume its responsibilities” before tensions spiral further.
Oman, a previous mediator in Iran nuclear talks, strongly condemned the strikes. The official Oman News Agency said the Persian Gulf state was “deeply concerned” over the escalation, calling for an immediate halt to hostilities.
Iraq issued a formal warning. The government spokesperson said the US move poses a “grave threat” to Middle Eastern peace.
China “strongly condemned” the US bombing, calling it a “serious violation” of the UN Charter. Its foreign ministry accused Washington of “exacerbating tensions” and called on Israel and others to reach a ceasefire quickly.
India voiced “deep concern.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a post after speaking with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, “We reiterated our call for immediate de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy.”
Pakistan was among the harshest critics. Officials labeled the strikes a “war crime” and a “deliberate act of aggression.” A Senate defense committee chair accused the US of being “dominated by the Israeli lobby.”
Japan Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba told reporters the situation must “de-escalate quickly,” saying Tokyo was monitoring developments with “grave concern.”
France said a “lasting solution” can only be reached through negotiation. Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot emphasized the need for diplomacy within the framework of the Non-Proliferation Treaty.
German Chancellor Frederick Merz has called on Iran to immediately re-enter nuclear talks with the US so there can be a diplomatic solution, according to government spokesperson.
“The Chancellor and security cabinet ministers will coordinate closely with their European Union and US partners throughout the day,” spokesman Stefan Kornelius said in a statement.
Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said the strikes “posed a threat to the entire region,” but added, “We hope de-escalation can now begin.”
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said there was a “risk of escalation beyond the region.”
The European Union’s foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warned against any further escalation. “Iran must return to the negotiating table,” she posted.
Switzerland urged “maximum restraint” and respect for international law. The foreign ministry called for an immediate diplomatic return.
Mexico called for “urgent diplomatic dialogue” and reiterated its “pacifist conviction.” The foreign ministry warned the situation risks unraveling regional peace.
Chile’s President Gabriel Boric posted, “Having power does not authorize you to use it in violation of the rules we as humanity have given ourselves.”
Venezuela’s foreign ministry labeled the strikes a “clear and illegal violation” of state sovereignty and international norms.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel called it a “dangerous escalation” and warned it pushes the world “toward an irreversible crisis.”
Australia noted its concerns over Iran’s missile and nuclear program but stressed that now “is the time for peace.” A government spokesperson called the situation “highly volatile” and pushed for diplomacy.
New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters said further escalation must be avoided. “Diplomacy will deliver a more enduring resolution than military action,” he said.
Russia blasted the US for what it called an “irresponsible” act of aggression. The foreign ministry said the strikes “significantly increase” the risk of a broader regional war.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres called the attack a “dangerous escalation” and urged member states to uphold their legal obligations and avoid catastrophe.