AU, EU Condemn US–Israeli “Unprovoked” Attacks on Iran, Urge Immediate De-escalation
The African Union has expressed deep concern over coordinated military strikes by the United States and Israel on targets inside the Islamic Republic of Iran, describing the development as a dangerous escalation of tensions in the Middle East.
In a statement issued on Saturday via X, Chairperson of the AU Commission, Mahmoud Youssouf, said he was “deeply concerned by the reported military strikes carried out by the United States in coordination with Israeli forces against targets inside the Islamic Republic of Iran,” warning that the action marks “a serious intensification of hostilities in the Middle East.”
Youssouf called for “restraint, urgent de-escalation, and sustained dialogue,” stressing that all parties must act in full compliance with international law and the United Nations Charter to safeguard global peace and security.
He cautioned that further escalation could exacerbate global instability, with far-reaching consequences for energy markets, food security, and economic resilience—particularly in Africa, where many countries are already grappling with conflict and economic pressures.
The AU chairperson urged stakeholders to prioritise diplomatic engagement, including ongoing international mediation efforts facilitated by the Sultanate of Oman, to prevent further deterioration of the situation and uphold the rules-based international order.
“Sustainable peace can only be achieved through diplomacy, not through force,” he emphasised.
EU Raises Alarm
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Similarly, the European Council President, António Costa, described the developments in Iran as “greatly concerning,” noting that the European Union remains in close contact with partners across the region.
Costa reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to regional security and stability, highlighting the critical importance of nuclear safety and the prevention of actions that could further inflame tensions or undermine the global non-proliferation regime.
He stated that the European Union has imposed extensive sanctions in response to the actions of Iran’s leadership and the Revolutionary Guards, while consistently promoting diplomatic efforts to address concerns over Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programmes through negotiation.
“In close coordination with EU Member States, we will take all necessary steps to ensure that EU citizens in the region can count on our full support,” Costa said, urging all parties to exercise maximum restraint, protect civilians, and respect international law.
Wave of Strikes
The reactions followed a series of strikes on Saturday by US and Israeli forces on targets in several Iranian cities, triggering explosions and plumes of smoke in the capital, Tehran.
US President Donald Trump said Washington’s objective was to eliminate “imminent threats” posed by Iran. In a video message posted on social media, he announced that the US military had commenced “major combat operations in Iran,” vowing to dismantle the country’s missile capabilities and naval assets.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described the operation as a “preventive strike,” citing security concerns.
The latest escalation has heightened fears of a broader regional conflict, prompting renewed international calls for restraint and a return to diplomacy.
By PRNigeria
