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Israeli military says retaliatory attack ‘completed’, as Iran says it is ‘entitled and obligated to defend itself’.
Israeli Military Action and Iran's Response
In a significant escalation of tensions, the Israeli military executed a series of strikes on military bases located in Ilam, Khuzestan, and Tehran, Iran. The attacks, which spanned several hours, targeted about 20 sites. The Iranian army acknowledged the strikes resulted in the deaths of two soldiers and inflicted limited damage on the affected military bases. In response, Iran's air defense systems reportedly intercepted and countered the aggressive actions. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Iran asserted its right and obligation to defend itself against such external aggression.
The Israeli military declared the operation complete, with spokesperson Daniel Hagari warning that further retaliatory actions by Iran would prompt additional responses from Israel.
Global Reactions
United States
The United States responded by urging Iran to halt its attacks on Israel to prevent further escalation. Sean Savett, a spokesman for the US National Security Council, emphasized that the Israeli response was an act of self-defense, aimed solely at military targets, unlike what was described as Iran's targeting of populous Israeli cities. The US, while not participating in the operation, stated its commitment to de-escalating tensions in the Middle East through diplomacy. Pentagon spokesman Patrick Ryder reiterated the US's unwavering support for Israel's security.
Qatar
Qatar condemned the Israeli strikes as a blatant violation of Iran’s sovereignty and international law. The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed grave concern over the potential repercussions of such escalation and urged all parties to engage in dialogue and peaceful dispute resolution. The ministry called for intensified international efforts to de-escalate tensions and alleviate the suffering of people in Gaza and Lebanon.
Egypt
Egypt voiced serious concerns over the escalating situation in the Middle East, condemning actions that threaten regional stability. Stressing the importance of a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, Egypt highlighted the need for a deal facilitating the release of hostages as a crucial step towards de-escalation.
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia condemned the Israeli military action as a violation of Iran's sovereignty and called for restraint and de-escalation. The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the Kingdom’s firm stance against continued regional escalation, which jeopardizes the security and stability of nations and peoples in the area. Recent improvements in Saudi-Iran relations, marked by the re-establishment of diplomatic ties, add a layer of complexity to the current situation.
Iraq
Iraq's government condemned Israel's actions and criticized the international community's silence on what it termed as aggressive policies. Iraqi officials reiterated their call for a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon and urged regional and international efforts to support stability.
Hamas
The Palestinian organization Hamas condemned what it described as "Zionist aggression" against Iran. The group labeled the actions as a violation of Iranian sovereignty and an escalation that endangers regional security.
United Kingdom
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called for restraint from all parties involved, emphasizing Israel’s right to self-defense against Iranian aggression while also highlighting the necessity to avoid further regional escalation.
France
France’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs called for all parties to refrain from escalation that could worsen the already tense situation in the region.
Pakistan
Pakistan condemned the Israeli strikes as a violation of Iran's sovereignty and international law, stating that such actions undermine regional peace and increase volatility. The Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged the United Nations Security Council to intervene and curb Israeli aggression.
United Arab Emirates
The UAE expressed deep concern over the escalation and its impact on regional security. The Emirati Ministry of Foreign Affairs underscored the importance of restraint and the avoidance of conflict expansion.
Oman
Oman condemned the Israeli airstrikes as a violation of Iran’s sovereignty and an escalation that undermines de-escalation efforts. The Omani Ministry of Foreign Affairs called on the international community to take effective action to halt such aggression.
Malaysia
Malaysia criticized the Israeli strikes as a violation of international law that threatens regional security. The Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs called for an immediate cessation of hostilities to prevent a wider regional conflict.
Conclusion
The Israeli strikes on Iran have drawn widespread international condemnation and calls for restraint. As tensions in the Middle East continue to mount, the global community is urging diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation and ensure regional stability. The situation underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics at play and the urgent need for effective conflict resolution mechanisms.
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