What They’re Saying About Operation Epic Fury—February 28, 2026
U.S.
Speech by President Donald Trump | PBS
“A short time ago, the United States military began major combat operations in Iran. Our objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime. . . . It has always been the policy of the United States, in particular my administration, that this terrorist regime can never have a nuclear weapon. . . .
“That is why in Operation Midnight Hammer last June, we obliterated the regime’s nuclear program at Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan. After that attack, we warned them never to resume their malicious pursuit of nuclear weapons, and we sought repeatedly to make a deal. We tried. They wanted to do it. They didn't want to do it. Again they wanted to do it. They didn't want to do it. They didn't know what was happening. They just wanted to practice evil. But Iran refused, just as it has for decades and decades.
“They’ve rejected every opportunity to renounce their nuclear ambitions, and we can’t take it anymore. Instead, they attempted to rebuild their nuclear program and to continue developing the long range missiles that can now threaten our very good friends and allies in Europe, our troops stationed overseas, and could soon reach the American homeland. . . .
“For these reasons, the United States military is undertaking a massive and ongoing operation to prevent this very wicked, radical dictatorship from threatening America and our core national security interests. We’re going to destroy their missiles and raze their missile industry to the ground. It will be totally again obliterated. We're going to annihilate their navy. We're going to ensure that the region’s terrorist proxies can no longer destabilize the region or the world and attack our forces, and no longer use their IEDs, or roadside bombs as they are sometimes called, to so gravely wound and kill thousands and thousands of people, including many Americans. And we will ensure that Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon.
“My administration is taking every possible step to minimize the risk to U.S. personnel in the region. Even so, and I do not make this statement lightly, the Iranian regime seeks to kill. The lives of courageous American heroes may be lost, and we may have casualties. That often happens in war. But we're doing this not for now. We’re doing this for the future.
“To the members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard, the armed forces and all of the police, I say tonight that you must lay down your weapons and have complete immunity. Or in the alternative, face certain death. . . .
“Finally, to the great proud people of Iran, I say tonight that the hour of your freedom is at hand. Stay sheltered. Don’t leave your home. It’s very dangerous outside. Bombs will be dropping everywhere. When we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours to take. This will be probably your only chance for generations. For many years, you have asked for America’s help. But you never got it. No president was willing to do what I am willing to do tonight. Now you have a president who is giving you what you want. So let’s see how you respond. America is backing you with overwhelming strength and devastating force. Now is the time to seize control of your destiny, and to unleash the prosperous and glorious future that is close within your reach. This is the moment for action. Do not let it pass.”
Post by Speaker of the House of Representatives Mike Johnson | X
“Today, Iran is facing the severe consequences of its evil actions. President Trump and the Administration have made every effort to pursue peaceful and diplomatic solutions in response to the Iranian regime’s sustained nuclear ambitions and development, terrorism, and the murder of Americans—and even their own people. The Gang of 8 was briefed in detail earlier this week that military action may become necessary to protect American troops and American citizens in Iran. I received updates from Secretary Rubio thereafter, and I will remain in close contact with the President and the Department of War as this operation proceeds.”
Post by Senate Majority Leader John Thune | X
“For years, Iran’s relentless nuclear ambitions, its expanded ballistic missile inventory, and its unwavering support for terror groups in the region have posed a clear and unacceptable threat to U.S. servicemembers, citizens in the region, and many of our allies. Despite the dogged efforts of the president and his administration, the Iranian regime has refused the diplomatic off-ramps that would peacefully resolve these national security concerns. I commend President Trump for taking action to thwart these threats.”
Post by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer | X
“When I talked to Secretary Rubio, I implored him to be straight with Congress and the American people about the objectives of these strikes and what comes next. Iran must never be allowed to attain a nuclear weapon but the American people do not want another endless and costly war in the Middle East when there are so many problems at home.
“The administration has not provided Congress and the American people with critical details about the scope and immediacy of the threat. Confronting Iran’s malign regional activities, nuclear ambitions, and harsh oppression of the Iranian people demands American strength, resolve, regional coordination, and strategic clarity. Unfortunately, President Trump’s fitful cycles of lashing out and risking wider conflict are not a viable strategy.
“The administration must brief Congress, including an immediate all senators classified briefing and in public testimony, to answer these vital questions. The Senate should quickly return to session and reassert its constitutional duty by passing our resolution to enforce the War Powers Act.”
Post by Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Jim Risch | X
“Despite repeated warnings, Iran continued to build its nuclear program and now it must face the consequences of failing to take the President of the United States seriously. Much like President Trump has done in Syria and Venezuela, he has given the Iranian people the chance to pursue peace and prosperity without the death and destruction of the previous regime. It is my sincere hope that the Iranian people seize this opportunity.”
“The Iranian regime has murdered Americans and its own people and has been a deeply destabilizing force in the region. No one will be sad to see them go. However, I am deeply concerned about the President’s lack of clear strategy for yet another open-ended war and particularly for the safety of our troops, American citizens and U.S. interests in the Middle East region. . . .
“The President has also failed to address critical questions about the objectives, authorization, economic impact and potential for rapid escalation. The American people and Congress deserve immediate answers. Transparency and a clear articulation of long-term objectives are critical to preventing yet another open-ended conflict in the Middle East and ensuring the safety of Americans at home and abroad. There is a bipartisan war powers resolution on the floor now, ready for a vote. Before this entanglement grows, Congress should come back into session and vote on it immediately.”
“Today’s strikes are the inescapable response to 47 years of continuous and calculated aggression by the Ayatollah of Iran and all his generals against the United States, our allies, and the Iranian people. Every day under this regime, the United States and our allies have been under imminent threat of attack by Iran and its terrorist arms across the globe. They chanted ‘Death to America’ while seeking nuclear weapons and the missile technology to strike our homeland. The days of America waiting to be attacked by Iran are over.”
Post by Sen. Lindsey Graham | X
“God bless @POTUS for planning and now executing Operation Epic Fury, making America more safe and eventually more prosperous. . . . My mind is racing with the thought that the murderous ayatollah’s regime in Iran will soon be no more. The biggest change in the Middle East in a thousand years is upon us. . . . This operation has been well-planned. It will be violent, extensive and I believe, at the end of the day, successful. Again the demise of the ayatollah’s regime with American blood on its hands is necessary and more than justified.”
Statement by Sen. Ted Cruz | Sen. Cruz’s Website
“Under President Trump’s leadership, the United States is systematically acting against American enemies who have undermined our national security since the Cold War. As the President said again this morning, the Iranian regime has been terrorizing and murdering Americans for 47 years, including innocent civilians, our servicemembers, and American leaders. The Ayatollah has repeatedly tried to assassinate President Trump. Now they are seeking nuclear weapons and the ability to hit the American homeland. Today’s action will enhance the national security of the United States and our allies.”
Post by Sen. John Fetterman | X
“Operation Epic Fury. President Trump has been willing to do what’s right and necessary to produce real peace in the region. God bless the United States, our great military, and Israel.”
Statement by Rep. Brad Schneider | Rep. Schneider's Website
“Our Constitution explicitly gives Congress the exclusive power to declare war. The President of the United States is not allowed to take our nation to war without authorization from Congress. Speaker Johnson should immediately call the House back into session. The Administration must provide Congress with comprehensive classified briefings to understand the threat that justified today’s actions, the goals of the operation, and the strategy for achieving these goals. We need public hearings in House committees. We need formal public debate in the House and the Senate.
“Since its founding in 1979, Iran has threatened its neighbors and chanted ‘Death to Israel, Death to America.’ The Iranian regime today is an existential threat to our allies in the Gulf and Israel, as well as a serious threat to U.S. interests in the region and around the world, and national security here at home. Heaven forbid Iran were to ever obtain a nuclear weapon.
“The world must work together to block and then permanently close any pathway for Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon. We must address Iran’s development of ballistic missiles and its support for terrorist proxies around the world. The people of Iran are not our enemy, and we should help them free themselves from the oppression of this terrorist regime. The massacre of tens of thousands of Iranian citizens last month fully exposed the evil of the regime: the world will be a better place when it is gone.”
ISRAEL
Speech by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu | X
“My brothers and sisters, citizens of Israel, just an hour ago, Israel and the United States embarked on an operation to remove the existential threat posed by the terrorist regime in Iran. . . . For 47 years, the Ayatollahs' regime has chanted “Death to Israel,” “Death to America.” It has spilled our blood, murdered many Americans, and massacred its own people. This murderous terrorist regime must not be allowed to arm itself with nuclear weapons that would enable it to threaten all of humanity. Our joint operation will create the conditions for the brave Iranian people to take their fate into their own hands. The time has come for all parts of the Iranian people—the Persians, Kurds, Azeris, Baloch, and Ahwazis—to cast off the yoke of tyranny and bring freedom and peace-loving values to Iran.”
IRAN
Post by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi | X
“Netanyahu and Trump's war on Iran is wholly unprovoked, illegal, and illegitimate. Trump has turned ‘America First’ into ‘Israel First’—which always means ‘America Last’. Our Powerful Armed Forces are prepared for this day and will teach the aggressors the lesson they deserve.”
IRAN’S PROXIES
Hezbollah Condemns Strikes on Iran but Stops Short of Pledging to Attack Israel | Times of Israel
“Hezbollah condemned the ‘American-Israeli hostilities against the Islamic Republic,’ but stopped short of pledging to retaliate against Israel . . . ‘We call on countries and people of the region to stand strong in the face of these hostile designs,’ Hezbollah said in a statement, warning that ‘its dire consequences will affect everyone without exception if left unchecked.’ ‘We’re certain that the American-Israeli enemy will be dealt a major blow, and reap nothing but failure from its criminal, tyrannical aggression,’ Hezbollah added.”
“The Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen have decided to resume missile and drone attacks on shipping routes and on Israel in support of Iran. That’s according to two senior Houthi officials, who spoke in condition of anonymity because there is no official announcement from the Houthi leadership. One of the officials said the rebels’ first attack could come as soon as ‘tonight.’”
“In Yemen, the Houthi group also warned of escalation. Nasr al-Din Amer, deputy head of the group’s media authority, said ‘the coming hours carry more surprises,’ amid continued US-Israeli attacks on Iran. Amer asserted that US military bases in the region were under Iranian strikes and described Tehran’s response as legitimate self-defense.”
Iran’s Weakened Proxies Condemn US-Israeli Strikes Without Carrying Out Retaliatory Attacks | CNN
“In televised remarks, Houthi leader Abdulmalik al-Houthi said that his forces are ‘in a state of high readiness for any necessary developments.’ Al-Houthi also sought to assure other Middle Eastern countries that faced retaliatory attacks from Iran that the strikes are Iran’s ‘legitimate right and is not a targeting of the countries in which the American bases are located.’”
Iraq’s Kataib Hezbollah Vows Attacks on US Bases After PMF Strike | Shafaq News
“Iraq’s Kataib Hezbollah on Saturday announced plans to attack US military bases in response to what it described as “American aggression,” as hostilities continue between the United States, Israel, and Iran.”
‘Assault on Middle East’—Hamas Condemns US-Israeli Strikes Against Iran | Agence France-Presse
“‘The Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) condemns in the strongest terms the Zionist-American aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran, and affirms that this Zionist-American aggression constitutes a direct assault on the entire region and an attack on its security, stability and sovereignty,’ Hamas said in a statement.”
GULF STATES
Statement by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs | X
“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia condemns and denounces in strongest terms the blatant Iranian aggression and the flagrant violation of the sovereignty of the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan. The Kingdom affirms its full solidarity with and unwavering support for the brotherly countries, and its readiness to place all its capabilities at their disposal in support of any measures they may undertake. It also warns of the grave consequences resulting from the continued violation of states’ sovereignty and the principles of international law. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia calls on the international community to condemn these blatant attacks and to take all firm measures necessary to confront Iranian violations that undermine the security and stability of the region.”
Statement by UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs |Foreign Ministry’s Website
“The United Arab Emirates has condemned and denounced in the strongest terms the blatant Iranian missile attacks that targeted the UAE and several brotherly nations in the region, considering these acts a flagrant violation of national sovereignty and a clear breach of international law and the Charter of the United Nations.
“In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) affirmed the UAE’s full solidarity and unwavering support for the countries in the region affected by these attacks, emphasizing that their security is indivisible and that any infringement on the sovereignty of any state constitutes a direct threat to the security and stability of the entire region. . . .
“The UAE reiterated its call for restraint and a recourse to diplomatic solutions and serious dialogue, emphasizing that this remains the most effective path to overcoming the current crisis and safeguarding regional security and stability.
“The UAE underscored that it retains its full and legitimate right to respond to these attacks in a manner that safeguards its sovereignty, national security, and territorial integrity, and ensures the safety of its citizens and residents, in accordance with international law. The UAE will not tolerate any compromise to its security or sovereignty under any circumstances.”
Statement by Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs | Foreign Ministry’s Website
“The State of Qatar expresses its strong condemnation of the targeting of Qatari territory with Iranian ballistic missiles, considering it a flagrant violation of its national sovereignty, a direct infringement on its security and territorial integrity, and an unacceptable escalation that threatens the security and stability of the region.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirms that the State of Qatar reserves its full right to respond to this attack in accordance with the provisions of international law and in a manner proportionate to the nature of the aggression, in defense of its sovereignty and in protection of its security and national interests.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stresses that the State of Qatar has been and continues to be among the foremost advocates of dialogue with the Islamic Republic of Iran, consistently calling for this approach as the optimal foundation for addressing differences and resolving disputes through peaceful means, and for sparing the region the risks of escalation. . . .
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs renews the State of Qatar's call for the immediate cessation of any escalatory actions, a return to the negotiating table, the prioritization of reason and wisdom, and efforts to contain the crisis in a manner that preserves the security of the region, safeguards the interests of its peoples, and prevents a slide into broader confrontations.”
“he Kingdom of Bahrain strongly condemned and denounced the treacherous Iranian missile attacks targeting the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the State of Qatar, the State of Kuwait, and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, in flagrant violation of their sovereignty, security and stability. These attacks constituted a serious threat to the safety and lives of civilians and residents and demonstrated blatant disregard for international law, established norms and the principles of good neighbourliness. . . .
“The Ministry affirmed that the armed forces in these states remain fully prepared to deter any attacks that threaten the security and safety of brotherly Arab states and violate their sovereignty and independence.
“The Ministry called on the international community to condemn this criminal aggression and to take an immediate and decisive stance to halt these hostile acts that endanger the lives of civilians and residents.
“It reaffirmed that the states retain their legitimate right to respond and take the necessary measures to preserve their sovereignty, security, stability and the safety of their citizens and residents.”
Statement by Kuwait’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs | X
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses the State of Kuwait's strong condemnation and denunciation of the Iranian attacks that targeted the Riyadh region and the Eastern Province in the sisterly Arab Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in flagrant violation of international law and the United Nations Charter. The Ministry affirms the State of Kuwait's full solidarity with the sisterly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its support for all measures it takes to preserve its sovereignty, security, and stability.”
Statement by Oman’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs | X
“The Sultanate of Oman calls on the Islamic Republic of Iran to respect the sovereignty of states, the principles of international law, and good neighborly relations with all member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council for the Arab States. While condemning and denouncing the Israeli-American airstrikes on Iran, the Sultanate of Oman rejects and condemns the Iranian side's response to these strikes through its attacks and targeting of sites in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Bahrain, the State of Qatar, and the State of Kuwait, in addition to sites in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the Republic of Iraq. Oman affirms its solidarity with these sister states and its support for the measures they are taking to protect their security, sovereignty, and the safety of their territories.”
LEBANON
Post by Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam | X
“In light of the dangerous developments the region is witnessing, I return and implore all Lebanese people to exercise wisdom and patriotism, placing the interest of Lebanon and the Lebanese above any calculation. And I repeat that we will not accept anyone dragging the country into adventures that threaten its security and unity.”
SYRIA
Syria Condemns Iranian Strikes on Several Arab Countries | Syrian Arab News Agency
“Syria’s Foreign Ministry on Saturday condemned Iranian strikes on a number of Arab countries, describing them as violations of their sovereignty and security. In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates said it ‘strongly condemns the Iranian attacks’ that targeted Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and Jordan. ‘The Syrian Arab Republic expresses its full solidarity with the brotherly states that were subjected to these heinous attacks,’ the statement said, adding that Damascus rejects ‘any threats to the security and stability of these countries’ and calls for respect for their sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
JORDAN
Post by the Royal Hashemite Court | X
“His Majesty @KingAbdullahII, during a phone call with #France President Emmanuel Macron, condemned the attack on Jordanian territory, and any attacks on Arab nations, stressing that #Jordan will continue to take all necessary measures to preserve the safety of its citizens and protect its security and sovereignty.”
Post by Jordan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs | X
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Affairs has strongly condemned today the Iranian attacks on the sisterly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and affirmed Jordan’s rejection and denunciation of these attacks, which represent a flagrant violation of the sovereignty of sisterly Saudi Arabia, and a dangerous new escalation that threatens the security and stability of the region.”
EUROPE
Speech by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer | Gov.UK
“The United Kingdom played no role in these strikes. But we have long been clear—the regime in Iran is utterly abhorrent. They have murdered thousands of their own people, brutally crushed dissent, and sought to destabilise the region. Even in the United Kingdom, the Iranian regime poses a direct threat to dissidents and the Jewish community. . . . So it’s clear – they must never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon. . . . I condemn Iran’s attacks today on partners across the region, many of which are not parties to this conflict.
“As part of our commitments to the security of our allies in the Middle East we have a range of defensive capabilities in the region – which we’ve recently taken steps to strengthen. . . . We’ve stepped up protections for British bases and personnel to their highest level.
“It is vital now that we prevent further escalation and return to a diplomatic process. We want to see peace and security, and the protection of civilian life. Iran can end this now. They should refrain from further strikes, give up their weapons programmes, and cease the appalling violence and repression against the Iranian people—who deserve the right to determine their own future, in line with our longstanding position. That is the route to de-escalation and back to the negotiating table.”
Posts by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz | X
“The Iranian people have the right to decide their own fate. The federal government is in exchange with the USA, Israel, and partners in the region. It remains committed to peace and security in the region and underscores its commitment to Israel’s security.
“In recent weeks, the regime in Tehran has brutally suppressed the peaceful protests of courageous Iranian women and men. Instead of fulfilling its responsibility to protect its own people, the Iranian leadership has ignored calls to end the violence.
“At the same time, the Iranian leadership has continued to advance its military nuclear and missile program, from which dangers emanate far beyond the region. It has actively contributed to the destabilization of the region and supported international terrorism.
“The United States has long sought a negotiated solution. Iran has not agreed to any reliable arrangement to end its military nuclear program. It has neither committed to scaling back its missile program nor to ceasing destabilizing activities.
“Along with France, the United Kingdom, and our European partners, the Federal Government has repeatedly called on the Iranian leadership to halt its nuclear program, refrain from military strikes, and end the violence against its own population.
“The Federal Government urgently calls on Iran to cease the military strikes against Israel and other partners in the region. The leadership in Tehran must end the violence against its own population and return to a negotiated solution.”
Post by French President Emmanuel Macron | X
“The outbreak of war between the United States, Israel, and Iran carries grave consequences for international peace and security. . . . The ongoing escalation is dangerous for all. It must stop. The Iranian regime must understand that it no longer has any option but to engage in good-faith negotiations to end its nuclear and ballistic programs, as well as its actions of regional destabilization. . . . The Iranian people must also be able to build their future freely. The massacres perpetrated by the Islamic regime disqualify it and require that the voice be given back to the people. The sooner, the better. True to its principles and aware of its international responsibilities, France is calling for an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council.”
“The developments in Iran are greatly concerning. . . . Ensuring nuclear safety and preventing any actions that could further escalate tensions or undermine the global non-proliferation regime is of critical importance. . . . We call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint, to protect civilians, and to fully respect international law.”
Post by European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas | X
“The latest developments across the Middle East are perilous. Iran’s regime has killed thousands. Its ballistic missile and nuclear programmes, along with support for terror groups, pose a serious threat to global security . . . I have spoken to Israel’s Foreign Minister Saar and other ministers in the region. The EU is also coordinating closely with Arab partners to explore diplomatic paths. Protection of civilians and international humanitarian law is a priority. . . . Our Aspides naval mission remains on high alert in the Red Sea and stands ready to help keep the maritime corridor open.”
Post by European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas | X
“I will convene an extraordinary Foreign Affairs Council via video link on Sunday to address Iran and the rapidly unfolding events across the Middle East. I have been in contact with our partners in the Gulf countries. The Iranian regime’s indiscriminate attacks against its neighbours carry the risk of dragging the region into a broader war and we condemn this. It is essential that the war does not spread any further. The Iranian regime has choices to make.”
Post by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez | X
“We reject the unilateral military action by the United States and Israel, which represents an escalation and contributes to a more uncertain and hostile international order. We likewise reject the actions of the Iranian regime and the Revolutionary Guard. We cannot afford another prolonged and devastating war in the Middle East. We demand immediate de-escalation and full respect for international law. It is time to resume dialogue and achieve a lasting political solution for the region.”
RUSSIA & UKRAINE
Statement by Russian Foreign Ministry | Foreign Ministry’s Website
“The scope and character of the military, political, and propaganda preparations that preceded this reckless step [the U.S.-Israeli attacks], including the deployment of substantial US military forces to the region, leave no doubt that this is a deliberate, premeditated, and unprovoked act of armed aggression against a sovereign and independent UN member state, in direct violation of the fundamental principles and norms of international law. . . .
“Washington and Tel Aviv have once again embarked on a perilous course that is swiftly pushing the region toward a humanitarian, economic, and potentially even radiological disaster. The aggressors’ intentions are evident and have been stated openly: to dismantle the constitutional order and remove the leadership of a state they deem undesirable because it has refused to yield to the dictates of force and hegemonic pressure. Responsibility for the impact of this man-made crisis, including the unpredictable chain reaction and the spiral of escalating violence, rests entirely with them. . . .
“We call for an immediate return to a political and diplomatic track. Russia, as always, stands ready to assist in advancing peaceful solutions grounded in international law, mutual respect, and a balanced consideration of interests.”
Post by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy | X
“Although Ukrainians have never threatened Iran, the Iranian regime has decided to side with Putin and supply him with "Shahed" drones—not just the drones themselves, but the technology. Iran has also provided Russia with other weapons.
“In total, throughout this full-scale war, the Russians have used more than 57,000 Shahed-type attack drones against our people, our cities, and our energy infrastructure. Other countries have also suffered from terrorism.
“Therefore, it is only fair to give the people of Iran the opportunity to rid themselves of the terrorist regime and ensure the security of all nations that have suffered from terrorism originating from Iran.
“Our position is entirely clear, and Ukraine has stated it many times, including recently. Preserving human lives to the greatest extent possible is crucial. Preventing the spread of war is crucial. It is crucial that the United States acts decisively. Whenever America is determined, global criminals are weakened. This understanding must reach the Russians as well.
“People may not know the day or the hour, but every evil, terrorist, and aggressive act against neighbors will ultimately face a just response. We expect that the Middle East region will eventually become safer and more stable. For now, many changes have occurred in pursuit of that goal.
“Ukraine is ready to help any nation increase its security and justice while diminishing terrorist regimes.”
EAST ASIA
Post by Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson | X
“China is highly concerned over the military strikes against Iran launched by the U.S. and Israel. Iran’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity should be respected. China calls for an immediate stop of the military actions, no further escalation of the tense situation, resumption of dialogue and negotiation, and efforts to uphold peace and stability in the Middle East.”
TURKEY
Statement by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan | X
“[W]e are deeply saddened and concerned by the U.S.–Israeli attacks against our neighbour Iran, which were triggered by the provocations of Netanyahu. As you are aware, we have invested serious and sustained efforts over an extended period to resolve disagreements through dialogue at the negotiating table. . . .However, the desired outcome could not be achieved, as the trust deficit between the parties could not be overcome and Israel’s continued efforts to poison the process persisted.
“We strongly deplore the attacks carried out this morning, which not only constitute a clear violation of Iran’s sovereignty but also threaten the peace of the friendly and brotherly people of Iran. Likewise, regardless of the reasons, we find Iran’s missile and drone attacks targeting our brotherly countries in the Gulf unacceptable.”
CANADA
Carney and Anand: “Canada reaffirms Israel’s right to defend itself and to ensure the security of its people. Canada supports the United States acting to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and to prevent its regime from further threatening international peace and security.”
LATIN AMERICA
Post by Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel | X
Díaz-Canel: “The attacks carried out this February 28 by Israel and the United States, in violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of #Iran, constitute a flagrant violation of International Law and the UN Charter. They ruin for the second time the efforts of diplomacy regarding the nuclear issue, and endanger regional and international peace and security. The effects already being recorded in that turbulent region bear witness to this. The international community must act immediately to stop this aggression and escalation, due to its unpredictable consequences.”
AUSTRALIA
Albanese, Marles, and Wong: “We support the United States acting to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and to prevent Iran continuing to threaten international peace and security.”
UNITED NATIONS
Post by UN Secretary-General António Guterres | X
Guterres: “I condemn today’s military escalation in the Middle East. The use of force by the United States & Israel against Iran, and the subsequent retaliation by Iran across the region, undermine international peace & security. All Member States must respect their obligations under international law, including the Charter of the @UN . . . I call for an immediate cessation of hostilities & de-escalation. Failing to do so risks a wider regional conflict with grave consequences for civilians & regional stability. I strongly encourage all parties to return immediately to the negotiating table.”
“I deplore the military strikes across Iran this morning by Israel and the United States of America, and the subsequent retaliatory strikes by Iran. As always, in any armed conflict, it is civilians who end up paying the ultimate price. Bombs and missiles are not the way to resolve differences but only result in death, destruction and human misery. To avert these terrible consequences for civilians, I call for restraint and implore all parties to see reason, to de-escalate, and for a return to the ‘negotiating table’ where they had been actively seeking a solution only hours earlier. This is the only way durably to resolve the deep differences between States that exist.”
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