World leaders on Tuesday urged caution as tensions between Iran and Israel escalated, following Tehran’s rocket barrage aimed at its long-time adversary.
Tehran’s assault, launched as Israel began a ground offensive against Hezbollah forces in Lebanon, was framed as retaliation for the killing of Iran-backed militant leaders.
This marks the second direct strike from Iran on Israel this year, the first being a missile and drone attack in April in response to an Israeli airstrike on Iran’s consulate in Damascus.
UN Calls for Ceasefire
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the growing conflict, highlighting the escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, alongside the ongoing war with Hamas militants in Gaza. “This must stop. We urgently need a ceasefire,” Guterres stated.
US Response
President Joe Biden ordered military support for Israel’s defense against the Iranian assault, directing US forces to intercept any missiles targeting the country. Secretary of State Antony Blinken also condemned the attack as “totally unacceptable” and called for global condemnation, noting that initial reports suggested Israel, with international support, successfully defended against the assault.
Israeli Retaliation
Israel vowed swift retaliation, with military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari stating, “This attack will have consequences. We will act at a time and place of our choosing.”
Hamas Praises Iran’s Strike
Hamas celebrated Iran’s rocket attack, calling it retribution for the deaths of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. In a statement, Hamas described the strike as “heroic” and justified as revenge for “the blood of our martyrs.”
Global Calls for Restraint
Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez called for an end to the cycle of violence, urging restraint from all sides, including Israel. Similarly, Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock demanded Iran cease its attack immediately, warning that it was pushing the region further toward catastrophe. French Prime Minister Michel Barnier expressed deep concern over the situation, calling it “extremely serious,” while British Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the Iranian aggression and reiterated the UK’s support for Israeli security.
Canada’s Strong Condemnation
Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly unequivocally condemned Iran’s attack, stressing that it would only serve to further destabilize the region, calling for an immediate halt to the hostilities.