Global leaders react after Israeli, US strikes on Iran

Israel and the United States launched strikes on Iran on Saturday, escalating tensions in the Middle East as US President Donald Trump vowed to destroy Tehran’s missile arsenal and prevent it from developing a nuclear weapon.

The attacks drew swift international reactions.

Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of Russia’s Security Council and former president, criticised the strikes. “The peacemaker once again showed his face,” Dmitry Medvedev said, adding that negotiations with Iran were merely a cover operation. “No one doubted it. No one really wanted to negotiate anything.” He also contrasted the relative youth of the United States with the long history of the Persian Empire, saying time would determine the outcome.

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam warned against escalation, stating, “I reiterate that we will not accept anyone dragging the country into adventures that threaten its security and unity.”

Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide questioned the legality of the move. He said that while Israel described the operation as a preventive strike, such actions require proof of an immediately imminent threat under international law.

The strikes have intensified fears of a wider regional conflict, with global leaders urging restraint amid rising hostilities.