Israel said early on Friday it had struck Iranian nuclear targets to block Tehran from developing atomic weapons, and Iranian media and witnesses reported explosions including at the country's main uranium enrichment facility.
Reuters published some reactions from top officials and governments around the world
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio: "Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region."
"Let me be clear: Iran should not target U.S. interests or personnel."
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong: “Australia is alarmed by the escalation between Israel and Iran. This risks further destabilizing a region that is already volatile. We call on all parties to refrain from actions and rhetoric that will further exacerbate tensions.
“We all understand the threat of Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile program represents a threat to international peace and security, and we urge the parties to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy.”
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon: “It's a really unwelcome development in the Middle East. The risk of miscalculation is high. That region does not need any more military action, and risk associated with that.”
Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi: “Japan continues to make all necessary diplomatic efforts to prevent the further deterioration of the situation, while implementing every possible measure to ensure the protection of Japanese citizens.”
Al Jazeera reports Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry calls the Israeli strikes on Iran a clear violation of international laws and norms.
“While the kingdom condemns these heinous attacks, it affirms that the international community and Security Council bear a great responsibility to immediately halt this aggression,” the ministry said in a statement.
