Today's Edition
(REUTERS)
The reaction of world leaders after US forces struck three Iranian nuclear sites on Sunday Iran time ranged from Israel lauding President Donald Trump's decision to the UN calling for de-escalation and some countries condemning the attacks.
Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said: "Congratulations, President Trump. Your bold decision to target Iran's nuclear with the awesome and righteous might facilities of the United States will change history..."
UN Secretary-General Antonion Guterres said in a statement. "I am gravely alarmed by the use of the United States against Iran today. This is a dangerous escalation in a region already on the edge - and a direct threat to international peace and security.
"There is a growing risk that this conflict could rapidly get out of control - with catastrophic force consequences for civilians, the region, and the world. I call on Member States to de-escalate and to uphold their obligations Under the UN Charter and other rules of international law. At this perilous hour, it is critical to avoid a spiral of chaos. The only path forward is diplomacy."
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters said, "We acknowledge developments in the last 24 hours, including President Trump's announcement of US strikes on nuclear in Iran. Ongoing military action in the Middle East is extremely worrying, and it is critical further escalation is avoided. New Zealand strongly supports efforts towards diplomacy. We urge all parties to return to talks. Diplomacy will deliver a more enduring resolution than further military action."
A spokesperson for the Australian Government said, "We have been clear that Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile program has been a threat to international peace and security. We note the US President's statement that now is the time for peace. The security situation in the region is highly volatile. We continue to call for de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy."
The Mexican Foreign Ministry released a statement: "The restoration of peaceful coexistence among the states of the region is the highest priority.”
Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvasn Gil posted on social media, "Venezuela condemns US military aggression against Iran and demands an immediate cessation of hostilities. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela firmly and categorically condemns the bombing carried out by the United States military, at the request of the State of Israel, nuclear facilities in the Islamic Republic of Iran, including the Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan complexes."
