Israel Strikes Iran: World Reaction

November 4, 2024

On Oct. 26, 2024, Israeli warplanes struck 20 military sites across at least three provinces in Iran. More than 100 airplanes participated in the complex four-hour operation more than 1,000 miles away from Israel’s borders. The attack was a response to Iran’s second direct on Israel, a barrage of 180 ballistic missiles on October 1.

Israel appeared to calibrate its strike to limit the risk of further escalation by not targeting Iranian nuclear sites or oil facilities, in line with counsel from the Biden administration. But extensive damage to air defenses and missile and drone factories reportedly left Iran vulnerable to future attacks. Israel “now has broader aerial freedom of operation in Iran,” Israel Defense Forces Spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said. Four members of Iran’s conventional army, the Artesh, and one civilian were killed.

Major General Hossein Salami, the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned of “bitter” and “unimaginable” consequences, but other Iranian leaders stopped short of pledging a direct military response. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned that the strike should not be downplayed and that Israel’s “miscalculations must be stopped.” Yet he deferred to others to determine the response. “Of course, our officials should be the ones to assess and precisely apprehend what needs to be done and do whatever is in the best interests of this country and nation,” he said. 

But the message from Tehran began to shift as the full extent of the damage became clear, partly due to satellite imagery published and analyzed in Western media. Supreme Leader Khamenei promised “a crushing response” to Israel during a speech on November 2. 

Supreme Leader Khamenei

World reaction was divided. U.S. officials reiterated their “ironclad” support for Israel and its right to respond to Iran’s missile attack. They warned that U.S. forces would continue to defend Israel if Iran responded. “My hope is this is the end,” President Joe Biden told reporters. European powers also called on all parties to refrain from further escalation.

Most Arab-majority countries condemned Israel’s attack. Even Saudi Arabia, Iran’s long-time regional rival, denounced the strike as “a violation of its sovereignty and a violation of international laws and norms.”

Iran’s allies and partners were uniformly critical of Israel, and some implicated the United States. Hamas warned that the attack “threatens the security of the region” and placed “full responsibility on the [Israeli] occupation for the consequences of this aggression, supported by the United States of America.” Russia alleged that the United States provided Israel with intelligence to help the mission. The following are excerpted reactions from across the world.  


Israel

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

Oct. 27, 2024: “The air force attacked throughout Iran. We hit hard Iran’s defense capabilities and its ability to produce missiles that are aimed at us. The attack in Iran was precise and powerful, and it achieved all its objectives.”

Oct. 28, 2024: “I would like to emphasize – these were not workshops. These are not small explosive laboratories as you know from Judea and Samaria (West Bank) or the Gaza Strip. These are industrial death factories, on an industrial scale. And we dealt them a real blow. I thank our allies, in particular the United States, for their continued cooperation.”  

Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi

Oct. 28, 2024: “We drew upon only some of our abilities. We have the ability to do much more.”

“We struck strategic systems in Iran, which carries great importance, and we will now see how things develop. We are prepared for all scenarios in every arena.”

“We know how to reach and hit any threat, in any place, at any time.”

Israel Defense Forces Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari

Oct. 26, 2024: “In response to months of continuous attacks from the regime in Iran against the State of Israel—right now the Israel Defense Forces is conducting precise strikes on military targets in Iran. The regime in Iran and its proxies in the region have been relentlessly attacking Israel since October 7th—on seven fronts—including direct attacks from Iranian soil.

“Like every other sovereign country in the world, the State of Israel has the right and the duty to respond. Our defensive and offensive capabilities are fully mobilized. We will do whatever necessary to defend the State of Israel and the people of Israel.

Oct. 26, 2024: “I can now confirm that we have concluded the Israeli response to Iran’s attack against Israel. We conducted targeted and precise strikes on military targets in Iran -- thwarting immediate threats to the State of Israel. The Israel Defense Forces has fulfilled its mission. If the regime in Iran were to make the mistake of beginning a new round of escalation, we will be obligated to respond. Our message is clear: All those who threaten the State of Israel and seek to drag the region into wider escalation will pay a heavy price. We demonstrated today that we have both the capability and the resolve to act decisively, and we are prepared -- on offense and defense -- to defend the State of Israel and the people of Israel.”

 Ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon

Oct. 28, 2024: Israel’s response was “measured and proportionate.”

“To Iran’s leaders, take this as a warning: Israel has shown restraint. But from here on, you will see only strength. Any further aggression will be met with consequences that are swift and decisive.”

 

Iran

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

Nov. 2, 2024: Iran’s enemies “will definitely receive a crushing response to what they are doing to Iran, the Iranian people, and the resistance front.” 

Oct. 27, 2024: “Two nights ago, they [Israelis] carried out the malicious act. They, of course, exaggerated, which is wrong. But at the same time, it should not be downplayed either by saying it was insignificant or unimportant. The Zionist regime’s miscalculations must be stopped. They are making serious mistakes in judgement. They do not understand the Iranian people. They have not recognized the power, capability, ingenuity, and determination of the Iranian people. We need to make them understand these things."

"Of course, our officials should be the ones to assess and precisely apprehend what needs to be done and do whatever is in the best interests of this country and nation. They [the enemy] must be made to realize who the Iranian people are and what the Iranian youth are like.”

President Masoud Pezeshkian

Nov. 3, 2024: "We'll never let aggression against our territory & security go unanswered... If they [the Israelis] reconsider their behavior, accept a cease-fire, and stop massacring the oppressed and innocent people of the region, it could affect the intensity and type of our response.”

Oct. 27, 2024: “We do not seek war, but we will defend our country and the rights of our people. We will give a proportionate response to the aggression by the Zionist regime.”

“If the Zionist regime continues its aggression and crimes, tensions will escalate.”

The United States was “provoking the regime into committing these crimes.”

President Pezeshkian

Commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Major General Hossein Salami

Oct. 31, 2024: “You made yet another mistake and you’ll suffer. (Our response) will be unimaginable.

“The Israelis are wrong to think they can change history by launching a number of missiles.”

“Israel has reached the stage of collapse and these days it acts blindly and without any rules and commits any crime.”

Oct. 28, 2024: “The illegitimate and illegal action of the Israeli regime failed to achieve its ominous goals due to the readiness of the country’s air defense.”

Israel’s attack revealed a “miscalculation and its frustration in the battlefield in the war against the combatants of the great front of Islamic resistance, especially in Gaza and Lebanon.”

“The mistake will certainly have unimaginable, bitter consequences for Israel.”

Deputy IRGC Commander Brigadier General Ali Fadavi

Oct. 31, 2024: “Iran’s response to the Zionist aggression is definite. We have never left an aggression unanswered in 40 years. We are capable of destroying all that the Zionists possess with one operation. The martyrdom of the leaders does not weaken the resistance but strengthens it. Israel thought it was able to destroy Hezbollah by martyring Hassan Nasrallah and other leaders; meanwhile, Hezbollah has become more powerful than before.”

Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi

 Oct. 26, 2024 letter to the U.N. Secretary General:

Excellency,

I am writing to bring to your attention and the members of the Security Council the Zionist regime’s unlawful and aggressive actions, which constitute a serious violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Islamic Republic of Iran and a flagrant breach of international law and the United Nations Charter. In the early hours of Saturday morning, 26 October 2024, Israel’s terrorist regime launched a series of military airstrikes targeting several sites in Khuzestan, Ilam, and around Tehran provinces. While Iran’s air defense system intercepted most of the missiles, four Iranian military officers, namely Hamzeh Jahandideh, Mohammad Mahdi Shahrokhi, Sajjad Mansouri, and Mehdi Naghavi were tragically martyred while courageously sacrificing their lives to defend and safeguard their country's national security. If not for the successful performance of Iran's air defense, the Israeli aggression could have resulted in significant casualties.

The Islamic Republic of Iran condemns these deliberate acts of aggression by the Zionist regime in the strongest terms. Israel’s unlawful attacks violate the foundational principles of international law and the United Nations Charter, particularly Article 2, Paragraph 4, which strictly prohibits the use of force against the sovereignty and territorial integrity of any state. Israeli regime's actions constitute a grave threat to international peace and security and further destabilize an already fragile region.

The Islamic Republic of Iran, in alignment with the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations and under international law, reserves its inherent right to legal and legitimate response to these criminal attacks at the appropriate time.

In light of the consequences of the Israeli regime's ongoing and systematic aggression, the Islamic Republic of Iran urges the United Nations Secretary-General and the Security Council to take a firm stance and condemn the Israeli regime for committing these acts of aggression strongly and unequivocally, demonstrating to the international community that such egregious violations of international law and the UN Charter will not go unanswered. Furthermore, the Islamic Republic of Iran requests the President of the Security Council to convene an urgent meeting to address this severe violation and unlawful actions and ensure accountability of this criminal regime.

I should be grateful if you would circulate the present letter as a document of the Security Council.

Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration.

Oct. 26, 2024: “Our history shows that Iran has no limits when it comes to self-defense. This was demonstrated during the eight-year war with Saddam’s regime and in confronting U.S. hostilities over the years. Despite sanctions and challenges, we have consistently defended our people. We will protect every inch of our land and stand firmly for the ideals of the Islamic Republic, as the world witnessed in Operations “True Promise 1 and 2,” which Iran carried out with determination.”

Iranian Foreign Ministry

Oct. 26, 2024: “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran condemns in the strongest terms the Zionist regime’s acts of aggression against a number of military sites in Iran as a blatant violation of international law and the United Nations Charter, particularly the principle prohibiting the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity and national sovereignty of countries.

As repeatedly emphasized by the competent authorities of the Islamic Republic of Iran, based on the inherent right of self-defense, as also reflected in Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, the Islamic Republic of Iran considers itself entitled and obliged to defend against acts of external aggression.

“The Islamic Republic of Iran stresses the use of all material and spiritual capabilities of the Iranian nation to defend its vital security interests, while also being congizant of its responsibilities for regional peace and security. It emphasizes the individual and collective responsibility of all regional countries to safeguard regional peace and stability and expresses gratitude to all peace-loving countries in the region and beyond who have condemned Israel's aggressive actions and expressed their disgust over the regime's warmongering posture.

“Undoubtedly, the continuation of occupation, illegal actions, and crimes by the Zionist regime in the region, particularly the genocide against the Palestinian people and aggression against Lebanon – perpetuated by comprehensive military and political support from the United States and certain other Western countries – remains the main cause of tension and insecurity in the region.

“The Islamic Republic of Iran, recalling the responsibility of each and every member State of the United Nations, the member States of the "Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide," and the member States of the "Four Geneva Conventions of 1949," emphasizes the urgent need for collective action in response to the gross violations of international law, the UN Charter, the Genocide Convention, and international humanitarian law, which are simultaneously considered serious breaches of international peace and security.

“The Islamic Republic of Iran also stresses the necessity for immediate and urgent mobilization of the global community to stop the Israeli regime's genocide, war, and aggression against Gaza and Lebanon, and to rein in the regime's warmongering.”

Iranian Mission to the United Nations

Oct. 26, 2024: 1. The Zionist regime’s warplanes attacked several Iranian military and radar sites from Iraqi airspace, approximately 70 miles from Iran’s border.

2. Iraqi airspace is under the occupation, command and control of the U.S. military.

Conclusion: The U.S. complicity in this crime is certain.

Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council Ali Akbar Ahmadian

Oct. 28, 2024: “This operation did not even have a minimum impact on Iran’s military power,”

Vice President for Strategic Affairs Javad Zarif

Oct. 27, 2024: “My sincerest condolences to the families of the brave air defense officers of the Iranian Army, who lost their lives in defending the nation against arrogant Israeli aggression. My thoughts are with them, wishing them patience and the dignity they truly deserve.

“May the souls of our martyrs rest in peace and their memories be everlasting.

“Today, thanks to the courage and wisdom of the Late Imam and our prudent Leader, as well as the bravery and dedication of our armed forces—the Army, the IRGC, the Police, and the Basij—our courageous people have demonstrated that they can stand-up to any aggressor; from Saddam Hussein to Israel. Despite the military and political support that the aggressors received from global powers, we Iranians showed that we are unwavering in defending our sacred homeland.

“The recent history of Iran teaches us to cherish this significant achievement of the Islamic Revolution. After enduring some 150 years of humiliation, losing significant territories in the north, east, and south of our beloved Iran, facing occupation and deliberate starvation during the two World Wars, and following over three decades of foreign dependence, Iran today stands proud and capable of resisting any power on its own. For the first time in over 200 years, during the last 45 challenging but glorious years, we have not lost a single inch of our cherished soil.

“Now, the Iranian people and their government are confident in their ability to address threats from hostile forces. With a forward-looking and opportunity-driven perspective, we are focused on national and regional development, as well as progress in economic, scientific, social, and political fields. This will ensure a prosperous and dignified future for Iran, contributing to the welfare of the people and the stability of the region, through active and constructive participation in global markets, corridors and advancements in science and technology.

“The West should move away from its outdated and dangerous paradigm. It must condemn Israel’s recent acts of aggression and join Iran in efforts to end the apartheid, genocide, and violence in Palestine and Gaza, and in Lebanon.

“Recognizing Iran’s confident resolve for peace is essential; this unique opportunity should not be missed.”

Head of the Office of the Supreme Leader Gholamhossein Mohammadi Golpayegani

Oct. 31, 2024: “The recent action of the Zionist regime in attacking parts of our country was a desperate move and the Islamic Republic of Iran will give it a harsh and regretful response.”

He lauded Iran’s efforts in “preventing the entry of the Zionist regime fighters into the territory.”

 

Hamas

Oct. 26, 2024: “The Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) strongly condemns the Zionist aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran, targeting military sites in multiple provinces. We consider this a flagrant violation of Iranian sovereignty and an escalation that threatens the security of the region and the safety of its people, placing full responsibility on the occupation for the consequences of this aggression, supported by the United States of America.”


Houthis

Oct. 26, 2024: “Iran's targeting comes against the backdrop of its unwavering official and popular stance on the Palestinian cause and its rejection of the genocide in Gaza. We affirm our unequivocal solidarity with the Iranian government and its legitimate right to respond to the successive Zionist attacks.”

 

United States

President Joe Biden

Oct. 26, 2024: “It looks like they didn’t hit anything other than military targets. My hope is this is the end.”

 Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin

Oct. 29, 2024: “I spoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant yesterday to review Israeli operations and discuss opportunities for regional de-escalation. I reiterated the U.S. commitment to a diplomatic arrangement in Lebanon that allows both Lebanese and Israeli civilians to return safely to their homes on both sides of the border, as well as a hostage release and ceasefire deal in Gaza. I reaffirmed the United States’ ironclad support for the defense of Israel and made clear that the United States is well postured to defend U.S. personnel, allies, and partners against attacks from Iran and Iranian-backed partners and proxies.”

State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller

Oct. 28, 2024: “Starting on October 1st, when Iran launched its unprecedented ballistic missile attack, 200 ballistic missiles launched from Iran at the state of Israel, Israel had a right to respond to that attack. We supported their right to do so. They responded on Friday night, and we believe this should be the end of that – of the matter.  

“As you know, because we talked about it quite publicly, we were communicating with them for nearly four weeks about the nature of their response and making sure that their response should be one that would be proportionate and would not in any way lead to further escalation. We believe that was the nature of the response and that Iran should not respond in any way. And that if Iran does not respond in any way – or I’m sorry, if Iran does respond in any way, we will continue to defend Israel.”

“So you heard the President say publicly a couple of things that he thought should not be included in the response. And if you look at the response that Israel launched, it did not include nuclear-related targets or attacks on economic sites. The response from Israel was limited to military sites, which was entirely appropriate given the nature of the attack by Iran. So, we do think it was a proportionate response that should not lead to further escalation by Iran, and we certainly hope that Iran will not further escalate the conflict.”

Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield

 Oct. 28, 2024: “Colleagues, not even four weeks ago, on October 1st, Iran launched nearly 200 ballistic missiles at Israel, with many targeting the country’s most populous city, Tel Aviv.

“This brazen attack had the potential to kill hundreds of civilians. And it very well could have, were it not for the United States’ military assistance defending Israel, at President Biden’s direction.

“In the hours following the barrage, the United States convened G7 leaders, including the leaders of several countries represented here on the Security Council.

“They agreed: There must be serious consequences for Iran. And we have seen those consequences come to bear.

“The United States issued new sanctions against Iran’s oil sector, including the so-called Ghost Fleet, which carries illicit oil products around the world.

“The United Kingdom and Australia issued new and sweeping sanctions against Iran’s missile program.

“And the European Union, for the first time, sanctioned Iran’s civilian airliners, including Iran Air.

“This coordinated diplomatic effort, across multiple jurisdictions, reflects a firm international consensus that Iran’s aggressive actions against Israel, including in support of its terrorist proxy Hizballah in Lebanon, are unacceptable.

“There is also firm international consensus that Israel has a right to defend itself against Iran’s attacks.

“And that is precisely what Israel did this weekend, when it carried out a targeted, proportional, and direct military response against Iran with no reports of civilian harm.

“Specifically, Israel conducted precision airstrikes against multiple military targets across Iran and outside populated areas.

“The United States did not participate in this military operation. Rather, we encouraged the Government of Israel to shape the operation as it did, again, a targeted, proportional, and direct response to degrade Iran’s ability to threaten its neighbors; deter further attacks; and reduce the risk of further escalation.

“Today, the United States’ message for Israel remains clear: We will always help secure its people and territory from Iran and its terrorist proxies and partners.

“Our message for Iran remains clear, as well: Should it choose to undertake further aggressive acts against Israel or U.S. personnel in the region, there will be severe consequences. We will not hesitate to act in self defense.

“Let there be no confusion: The United States does not want to see further escalation. We believe this should be the end of the direct exchange of fire between Israel and Iran. Indeed, Israel has made clear to the world that its response is now complete. And so, we again call on Iran to stop its attacks against Israel, and reign in its terrorist proxies.

“And we call on all members of the Security Council with influence to press Iran to stop pouring gasoline on the fire of regional conflict, and instead contribute to de-escalation.

“Know that the United States will continue to do our part to support a diplomatic path in the region. To help bring about an immediate ceasefire with release of hostages, ending the fighting in Gaza, and facilitating the urgent delivery of much-needed humanitarian relief to Palestinian civilians.

“And to lead an effort to secure through diplomacy the end to the war in Lebanon, with an agreement that allows civilians on both sides of the Blue Line to safely return to their homes.

 “Colleagues, Iran requested this meeting today. Its representative seeks to gaslight and deflect; to claim the role of victim, while continuing to sow chaos across the region.

“And because Russia is increasingly reliant on Iranian weapons to sustain its illegal, unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine, Iran believes this Council will have no choice but to look the other way. That we will not penalize it for flouting the UN Charter and myriad Security Council resolutions.

“But Russia’s words of support are hollow given its own actions in Ukraine.

“We have the collective responsibility to prove Iran wrong.

“Even in the face of obstruction by one member of this Council – Russia – we must impose costs for supporting terrorism and undermining international peace and stability.

“So, today, our message must be clear: We will not allow the region’s future to be dictated by Tehran and its proxies, whose actions before, on, and since October 7th have put millions of innocent civilians at risk.

“It is time for de-escalation: For Iran to cease its destabilizing activities, and for us to get these diplomatic deals done.

“Together, we can – and we must – oppose Iran’s malign activities and create a future of peace, dignity, and security for all.”

Pentagon Spokesperson Sabrina Singh

Oct. 28, 2024: “We believe that this should be the end of this tit for tat. We don't think that, you know, Iran should or needs to respond. On October 1st, Iran launched, you know, the 200 ballistic missiles that were targeting civilian population centers. Israel's response was, you know, targeted at military targets.

“We see this as a — as a way to off ramp. You are also seeing folks from this administration in the region continuing to consult, to push for a ceasefire, to, you know, push for the release of hostages. We want to see folks return home to their — to be able to go home on both sides of the border of Lebanon. So, that's something that we're focused on. So, we would urge Iran not to respond.”

Senior Administration Official

Oct. 25, 2024: “Should Iran choose to respond, we are fully prepared to once again defend against any attack. We recently deployed a THAAD battery, which is a ballistic missile defense system, to Israel. And we have worked to strengthen Israel’s air defense systems in the run-up to tonight’s response.

“President Biden and Vice President Harris have demonstrated clearly that we will always help defend Israel and secure its people and territory from Iran and its proxy terrorist groups.

“If Iran chooses to respond once again, we will be ready, and there will be consequences for Iran once again. However, we do not want to see that happen. This should be the end of this direct exchange of fire between Israel and Iran. Israel has made clear to the world that its response is now complete. 

“Accordingly, we would call on all countries of influence to press Iran to stop these attacks against Israel so that we can move beyond this direct cycle of attacks.

“Over the coming days, we are prepared to lead an effort to secure an end to the war in Lebanon through an agreement that allows civilians on both sides of the Blue Line to safely return to their homes. We are also prepared to lead an effort to finally achieve a ceasefire in Gaza together, with the return of hostages, which must happen without delay.

The overall contours of those arrangements are in place. Tony Blinken was in the region last week. This week, there will be further engagements, including a meeting of hostage negotiators over the coming days. And it’s time to bring these deals to a resolution once and for all.”  

National Security Council Spokesperson Sean Savett

Oct. 26, 2024: “Israel has announced that their response to Iran’s ballistic missile attack on October 1st is now complete. As the Israelis have stated, their response was an exercise in self-defense and specifically avoided populated areas and focused solely on military targets, contrary to Iran’s attack against Israel that targeted Israel’s most populous city. We would refer you to Israeli authorities for more information on their operation.

“The United States was not a participant in this operation. It is our aim to accelerate diplomacy and de-escalate tensions in the Middle East region. We urge Iran to cease its attacks on Israel so that this cycle of fighting can end without further escalation.”

 

United Nations

Spokesman for Secretary General Antonio Guterres

Oct. 26, 2024: “Following the attacks overnight by the Israeli Defense Forces on targets in the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Secretary-General is deeply alarmed by the continued escalation in the Middle East.  All acts of escalation are condemnable and must stop.

“The Secretary-General urgently reiterates his appeal to all parties to cease all military actions, including in Gaza and Lebanon, exert maximum efforts to prevent an all-out regional war and return to the path of diplomacy.”

 

United Kingdom

Prime Minister Keir Starmer

Oct. 26, 2024: “I am clear that Israel has the right to defend itself against Iranian aggression. I'm equally clear that we need to avoid further regional escalation and urge all sides to show restraint. Iran should not respond.”

 

France

Oct. 26, 2024: “France has learned of Israel’s announcement of strikes against military targets in Iran overnight, in response to the attack of 1 October.

“France urges the parties to refrain from any escalation or action likely to aggravate the situation of extreme tension prevailing in the region.”

 

Germany

Chancellor Olaf Scholz

Oct. 26, 2024: “My message to Iran is clear: We cannot continue with massive reactions of escalation. This must end now. This will provide an opportunity for peaceful development in the Middle East. What is important is that there needs to be a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of the hostages. I call on all parties to do this.”

 

Switzerland

Foreign Ministry

Oct. 26, 2024: “#Switzerland condemns the dangerous escalation of violence in the Middle East, including today’s #Israel airstrikes in #Iran.

“Hostilities must cease on all sides to avoid the worsening of the regional escalation.”

 

China

Foreign Ministry

Oct. 28, 2024: “China opposes violating the sovereignty and undermining the security of other countries and opposes the abuse of force. The tensions in the Middle East are running high. Relevant parties need to refrain from further increasing the overall security risks in the region. The recent incidents once again highlight the urgency to end the fighting. The international community, especially major countries with influence, should take concrete actions to play a constructive role and create necessary conditions for the de-escalation of regional tensions.”

 

Saudi Arabia

Oct. 26, 2024: “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia expresses its condemnation and denunciation of the military targeting of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which is a violation of its sovereignty and a violation of international laws and norms.

“The Kingdom affirms its unwavering position in its rejection of the continued escalation in the region and the expansion of the conflict that threatens the security and stability of the countries and people of the region.

“The Kingdom urges all parties to exercise the utmost restraint and reduce escalation and warns of the consequences of continuing military conflicts in the region. The Kingdom calls on the international community and influential and active parties to carry out their roles and responsibilities towards reducing escalation and ending the conflicts in the region."

 

Egypt

Oct. 26, 2024: “The Arab Republic of Egypt is following with deep concern the grave and rapid escalation in the Middle East, most recently marked by the Israeli attack on Iran this morning. Egypt condemns all actions that threaten the security and stability of the region, exacerbating its fragile situation and fueling tensions and the intensification of conflict in the region. Egypt warns of the current escalation risks, which could lead, whether intentionally or due to miscalculations, to a dangerous confrontation that threatens regional and international security.

“Egypt reaffirms its stance that calls for a prompt ceasefire in the Gaza Strip within a framework of a deal that would secure the release of captives and detainees, viewing this as the only path to de-escalation and the foundation for achieving the necessary calm amid this critical regional situation. Egypt also renews its demand for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon and emphasizes the need to respect Lebanese sovereignty across its entire territory. The Arab Republic of Egypt reiterates its call for adherence to international law, international humanitarian law, and the United Nations Charter, underscoring the imperative of respecting states’ sovereignty and the unity and integrity of their territories.”

 

Qatar

Oct. 26, 2024: “The State of Qatar expresses its strong condemnation and denunciation of Israel’s targeting of the Islamic Republic of Iran, considering this act a blatant violation of Iran’s sovereignty and a clear breach of the principles of international law.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses the State of Qatar’s deep concern regarding the serious repercussions that may result from this escalation, it urges all concerned parties to exercise restraint, resolve disputes through dialogue and peaceful means, and avoid anything that could destabilize security and stability in the region.

“The Ministry reiterates the State of Qatar’s call for the international community to intensify efforts aimed at de-escalation, reducing tensions, and ending the suffering of the peoples of the region, particularly in Gaza and Lebanon.”

 

Russia

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova

Oct. 26, 2024: “We urge all parties involved to exercise restraint, stop the violence and avoid a catastrophic scenario.

“It is necessary to stop provoking Iran into retaliatory actions and get out of the spiral of uncontrolled escalation.”

Permanent Representative to the United Nations Vassily Nebenzia

Oct. 28, 2024: “As we are all well aware, on the night of October 25-26, the Israeli Air Force delivered strikes coordinated with the United States against a number of targets in the Iranian provinces of Tehran, Ilam and Khuzestan, as a result of which four Iranian servicemen were killed. Had it not been for the successful operation of Iran’s air defense system, which was on high alert, the number of casualties and injuries, primarily among civilians, would have been entirely different.

“Unfortunately, this escalation was quite predictable, and the Israeli authorities made no secret in recent weeks of the fact that they had been preparing to strike objects in IRI. At the same time, far from trying to talk West Jerusalem out of this extremely dangerous venture, the USA and a number of its allies stated, directly or indirectly, that Israel supposedly had the right to act like that. In doing so, they acted extremely irresponsibly, since they deliberately provoked a new spiral of escalation in the Middle East instead of trying to make the protagonists refrain from new exchanges of blows. Moreover, as far as we can see, Washington also provided West Jerusalem with the intelligence information necessary for the strikes.

“Not only does this attack violate the principles of international law, but also destabilizes the already highly charged situation in the Middle East that is already teetering on the brink of a full-blown war. In that context, we are deeply concerned about the persistent and increasingly explosive escalation between Israel and the Islamic Republic of Iran, which poses real threats to stability and security in the region. We urgently call on all parties involved to exercise restraint, cease violence and do their utmost to avert a catastrophic scenario. It is important for all protagonists to find the strength and wisdom to finally get out of this spiraling uncontrolled escalation.

“We are extremely disappointed that these are by no means the first air attacks by West Jerusalem against countries in the region. Since the very beginning of the escalation of the Israeli-Palestinian confrontation, Israeli air force has repeatedly bombed Syrian and Lebanese cities. Moreover, West Jerusalem committed a number of political assassinations, including that of Hamas head Ismail Haniyeh, Hezbollah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah and a number of other leaders of movements that are in opposition to Israel. By these eliminations, Jerusalem is trying by hook or by crook to draw Iran – which is showing exceptional for such circumstances restraint – in confrontation. It is difficult to escape the feeling that West Jerusalem is intentionally raising tensions, despite Tehran’s signals of its readiness to refrain from further spiraling confrontation.

“We believe that such aggressive actions on the part of Israel aimed at stoking the flames of war are absolutely unacceptable and must be stopped. We urge West Jerusalem to abandon the practice of provocative military actions in the Middle East, which are fraught with extremely dangerous risks and repercussions for the entire region, which is already destabilized due to the incessant over a year-long escalation around the Gaza Strip.”

 

Pakistan

Oct. 26, 2024: “Pakistan strongly condemns Israel’s strikes against the Islamic Republic of Iran in the early hours on Saturday.

“Israeli military strikes against the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Islamic Republic of Iran are a grave violation of the UN Charter and the international law. These strikes undermine path to regional peace and stability and also constitute a dangerous escalation in an already volatile region.

“Israel bears full responsibility for the current cycle of escalation and expansion of the conflict in the region.

“We call on the UN Security council to play its role for the maintenance of international peace and security, and to take immediate steps to bring an end to Israeli recklessness in the region and its criminal behaviour.

“The international community must also play its role for restoring regional peace and security.”

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif

Oct. 26, 2024: “Deeply worried by the recent act of Israeli aggression against Iran. Such actions threaten not only regional peace and stability but also violate principles of sovereignty and international law. While strongly condemning this action, Pakistan stands with Iran and its other neighbors in pursuit of peace and urges all parties to act with restraint to avoid further escalation.”

 

India

Oct. 26, 2024: “We are deeply concerned by the evolving escalation in West Asia and its ramifications for peace and stability in the region and beyond. We reiterate our call to all concerned to exercise restraint and return to the path of dialogue and diplomacy. The ongoing hostilities are to nobody’s benefit, even as innocent hostages and civilian populations continue to suffer. Our Missions in the region are in contact with the Indian community.”

 

United Arab Emirates

Oct. 26, 2024: “The United Arab Emirates has strongly condemned the military targeting of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The UAE expressed deep concern over the continued escalation and its repercussions on regional security and stability.

“In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed the importance of exercising utmost self-restraint and judgment to mitigate risks and prevent the expansion of the scale of conflict.

“Furthermore the Ministry reaffirmed the UAE’s position that enhancing dialogue, adhering to international law, and respecting the sovereignty of states are essential foundations for resolving current crises.

“In this regard, the UAE emphasizes the necessity of resolving disputes through diplomatic means, rather than confrontation and escalation.”

 

Iraq

Oct. 26, 2024: Israel “continues its aggressive policies and expansion of conflict in the region, employing blatant acts of aggression without deterrence. This time, its hand of aggression has targeted the Islamic Republic of Iran through an airstrike on Iranian targets early this morning.

Iraq “reiterates its firm stance calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, and for comprehensive regional and international efforts to support stability in the region.”

 

Turkey

Oct. 26, 2024: “We condemn Israel's attack on Iran in the strongest terms.

“Israel, which is committing genocide in Gaza, preparing to annex the West Bank, and killing civilians every day in Lebanon, has now brought our region to the brink of a wider war with this attack.

“It is now clear that putting an end to Israeli terror in the region has become a historic task to ensure international security and peace.

“We therefore call on the international community to take immediate action to enforce the law and stop the Netanyahu government.

“As Türkiye, we reiterate that we do not want any further war, violence, and lawlessness in our region.

“For the restoration of peace in the Middle East, it is imperative that the countries of the region and non-regional actors act with reason and common sense.”

 

Jordan

Oct. 26, 2024: “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates condemns the airstrikes carried out by Israel on the territories of the Islamic Republic of Iran, describing them as a violation of international law, an infringement on sovereignty, and a serious escalation that fuels increased tension in the region.

“The official spokesperson for the Ministry, Ambassador Dr. Sufian Qudah, emphasized Jordan’s absolute rejection of this dangerous escalation in the region and the violations of international law, warning of the potential for the situation to spiral into a conflict that threatens regional and international peace and security.

“Ambassador Qudah called on the international community to assume its responsibilities and to take urgent measures to impose an immediate halt to Israeli aggression on Gaza and the West Bank, stressing that de-escalation and adherence to international law and United Nations resolutions are essential steps to protect regional stability and security and to avert the catastrophic consequences of continued Israeli violations.”

Some of the information in this article was originally published on October 30, 2024.