Tensions in the Middle East have escalated sharply following US airstrikes on three key Iranian nuclear facilities – Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow. The strikes were reportedly carried out early on Sunday under the orders of US President Donald Trump.
The action has drawn a range of international reactions, highlighting a growing global division over how to handle the deepening crisis.
In the UK, Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated his support for the US action. Speaking to The Guardian, Mr Starmer described Iran’s nuclear programme as “a grave threat to international security” and said Washington’s actions were intended to prevent that threat. He also urged Tehran to return to diplomatic negotiations.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy echoed this stance, calling on Iran to “show restraint” and re-engage in talks.
The European Union’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, has called for de-escalation and a return to the negotiating table, according to Al Jazeera. In a post on X, Ms Kallas stressed that Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons and indicated that EU foreign ministers would discuss the situation on Monday.
Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed “grave concern” and stated that his country was closely monitoring the situation.
However, China and Russia have strongly condemned the US attacks. China’s foreign ministry, as reported by Xinhua news agency, criticised the bombings as a “violation of the UN Charter and international law,” asserting that the actions had worsened regional instability. The ministry called for an immediate ceasefire and urged Israel to participate in de-escalation efforts and resume dialogue.
Russia issued a similar condemnation, labelling the US decision “irresponsible” and “a flagrant violation of international law,” according to The Moscow Times. Moscow called for an end to hostilities and urged a renewed focus on diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict.
Iran has warned that the strikes will have lasting consequences, raising concerns about a potential wider conflict in the already volatile region.
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