Israeli Airstrikes on Iran Trigger Middle East Escalation, Global Condemnation

The recent Israeli airstrikes on Iran, targeting multiple military and nuclear sites, have sparked international concern over escalating tensions in the Middle East. The African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf condemned the violence and called for restraint, emphasizing the threat to international peace and security. Vietnam also expressed deep concern, condemning the escalation and urging peaceful resolution in accordance with international law and the UN Charter. Russia, closely allied with Iran, condemned the sharp escalation and voiced its concern through Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, who indicated a detailed statement would be sent to the United Nations. Israeli strikes reportedly killed several high-ranking Iranian officials, prompting Iran to vow military retaliation, while Israel reported drone attacks launched from Iran and readiness to intercept them. These developments underscore the regional volatility and the urgent calls from global actors for diplomacy and peace.