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Iran responded swiftly and defiantly. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the strikes as “outrageous,” labeling them a “grave violation” of the UN Charter, international law, and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. In a statement posted on X, he said the attacks constituted “lawless and criminal behavior” with “everlasting consequences.” Araghchi emphasized that Iran “reserves all options” to defend its sovereignty, interests, and people under Article 51 of the UN Charter, holding the U.S. fully responsible for any fallout.
Reactions from world leaders were sharply divided. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the move, calling it a “bold decision” that would “change history” and thanking Trump for denying Iran nuclear weapons.
European leaders, including those from the UK, France, and Germany, voiced concern over potential wider conflict while acknowledging the nuclear threat. They called for restraint, de-escalation, and renewed negotiations. Russia strongly condemned the action as irresponsible aggression, with allies like China echoing worries about sovereignty violations.
Other nations offered measured responses. Saudi Arabia and Gulf states expressed concern and pushed for calm, while some Latin American and African countries criticized the strikes as unlawful. Supporters of the action, including certain U.S. allies, viewed it as necessary to prevent a nuclear-armed Iran.
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