Major international reactions followed after former U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the United States had carried out coordinated strikes on three nuclear-related locations in Iran, including the Fordo facility. Trump publicly framed the operation as a decisive success, urging Iran to end hostilities. The announcement immediately set off diplomatic responses worldwide, highlighting how quickly military actions can shift global conversations.
From Iran’s perspective, the response was sharp and uncompromising. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denounced the strikes as unlawful under international norms, warning that Iran would consider “all options” moving forward. He stressed that the targeted facilities were part of Iran’s civilian nuclear infrastructure and cautioned that the consequences of such actions could be long-lasting. His remarks reflected both legal objections and broader concerns about regional stability.
Reactions elsewhere revealed deep divisions. Israel welcomed the move, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu calling it a turning point that demonstrated strength as a pathway to security. In contrast, China criticized the strikes as a violation of the UN Charter and urged restraint to prevent further escalation. At the United Nations, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed grave concern, warning that unchecked conflict could spiral into a crisis with global consequences and emphasizing diplomacy as the only sustainable solution.
Across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond, leaders echoed calls for de-escalation. The European Union urged a return to negotiations and renewed focus on preventing nuclear proliferation. Regional governments, including Saudi Arabia, voiced anxiety about growing instability, while Iran-aligned groups condemned the strikes outright. From Asia to Latin America, the prevailing message was clear: avoiding a wider conflict requires dialogue, restraint, and careful diplomacy in moments when tensions run high.