Global leaders respond to US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites

Sunday 22 June 2025 - 08:31

By: Zahouani Ilham

Global leaders respond to US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites

On June 22, U.S. forces launched airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities, sparking a wide range of international reactions. While some nations welcomed the decision, others condemned it and called for immediate de-escalation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised President Donald Trump, calling his decision bold and historic. He asserted that the U.S. action would prevent a dangerous regime from acquiring nuclear weapons.

Iran strongly denounced the strikes, labeling them a serious breach of the UN Charter, international law, and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Tehran warned that the attacks would have far-reaching consequences and affirmed its right to defend itself by all means necessary.

The United Nations expressed deep concern, describing the U.S. action as a dangerous escalation that endangers regional and global stability. The UN called for restraint, emphasizing that diplomacy—not military action—must guide the path forward.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer acknowledged Iran's nuclear ambitions as a major security threat and defended the U.S. response. He urged Iran to return to negotiations and seek a peaceful resolution.

Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba highlighted the urgency of de-escalating the conflict and assured that his government was monitoring the situation closely.

Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, echoed calls to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. She urged all parties to resume dialogue and announced that EU foreign ministers would convene to address the issue.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani emphasized the need for negotiations following the attack, which he said caused significant damage to nuclear production facilities and posed a regional threat.

New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters expressed serious concern over ongoing military actions in the Middle East, stressing the importance of diplomacy to prevent further escalation.

Australia reiterated its long-standing concerns about Iran’s nuclear and missile programs and urged all parties to prioritize peace and dialogue amid rising tensions.

Mexico’s foreign ministry advocated for diplomacy and reaffirmed the nation’s pacifist principles. It emphasized the importance of restoring peace and cooperation in the region.

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil harshly criticized the U.S. strikes, describing them as military aggression allegedly carried out at Israel's request. He demanded an immediate halt to hostilities.

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel condemned the U.S. attacks, calling them a dangerous move that violated international norms and threatened global stability.