World leaders on Tuesday called for restraint and a ceasefire after Iran launched a missile attack on Israel in retaliation for the deaths of Iran-backed militant leaders. The attack coincided with Israel’s ground offensive against Hezbollah in Lebanon, intensifying the already volatile situation in the Middle East.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict, urging an immediate ceasefire to prevent further broadening of hostilities. “This must stop. We absolutely need a ceasefire,” Guterres emphasized, condemning the deepening conflict between Israel, Hezbollah, and Hamas.
The United States strongly condemned the Iranian attack, with President Joe Biden instructing the U.S. military to support Israel’s defense, including intercepting missiles targeting the country. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken described the attack as “totally unacceptable” and called for global condemnation of Iran’s actions. Israel vowed retaliation, warning that the strike from Iran would have significant consequences.
READ ALSO: Iran Launches Missile Barrage at Israel in Retaliation for Militant Leaders’ Deaths
Hamas, meanwhile, praised Iran’s missile barrage, calling it a justified response for the deaths of their leaders, including Hezbollah’s Hassan Nasrallah and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh.
European leaders, including officials from Spain, Germany, France, and the UK, echoed calls for restraint and condemned Iran’s actions, warning that the escalating conflict could plunge the region into further instability. Canada also issued a strong rebuke of the Iranian attack, calling for an immediate halt to the violence.
With tensions soaring, world leaders are pushing for diplomatic efforts to avoid an all-out regional war, as the conflict between Israel and Iran-backed groups continues to unfold.
