Both U.K. and U.S. officials were careful to note that neither London nor Washington had played a role in Israel’s airstrikes.
“Israel took unilateral action against Iran,” U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement, warning Iran not to “target U.S. interests or personnel.”
A spokesperson for António Guterres said the United Nations secretary-general is concerned by Israeli attacks on nuclear sites in Iran while talks are ongoing between Tehran and the U.S on the status of its nuclear program. He called on both sides “to show maximum restraint, avoiding at all costs a descent into deeper conflict, a situation that the region can hardly afford.”
France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said in a statement, “France is following with great attention the evolution of the situation in the Middle East,” adding that all parties should exercise restraint and avoid escalation, which could compromise regional stability.
“We reaffirm the right of Israel to defend itself against any attack. It is essential that all diplomatic channels are mobilized to dial down tensions. France is fully engaged to contribute to this,” he added.
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said: “We know that the situation is very complicated, but there is no other solution than a diplomatic one. We hope that the fighting can cease as soon as possible, actions and reactions are dangerous, the situation in the area risks exploding.”
