Massive reactions have trailed the United States’ bombing of Iran’s nuclear facilities in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, an unprecedented move that has raised fears of a broader regional conflict and drawn sharply divided responses from global leaders.
While some hailed the action as necessary to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, others condemned it as a violation of international law that could ignite a catastrophic war.
President Donald Trump described the strikes as a “very successful” operation.
“We have completed our very successful attack on the three Nuclear sites in Iran, including Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan,” Trump said in a post on Truth Social.
“All planes are now outside of Iran air space. A full payload of bombs was dropped on the primary site, Fordow. All planes are safely on their way home.”
He warned Tehran against any retaliation stating, “There will either be peace or there will be tragedy for Iran. Remember, there are many targets left.”
In his reactions, the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said, “I am gravely alarmed by the use of force by the United States against Iran today. This is a dangerous escalation in a region already on the edge – and a direct threat to international peace and security.
“There is a growing risk that this conflict could rapidly get out of control – with catastrophic consequences for civilians, the region, and the world.
“I call on Member States to de-escalate and to uphold their obligations under the UN Charter and other rules of international law. At this perilous hour, it is critical to avoid a spiral of chaos. There is no military solution. The only path forward is diplomacy. The only hope is peace.”
The UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, however, supported the move, stating that Iran should never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon”
“Iran’s nuclear programme is a grave threat to international security. Iran can never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon and the U.S. has taken action to alleviate that threat.
“The situation in the Middle East remains volatile and stability in the region is a priority. We call on Iran to return to the negotiating table and reach a diplomatic solution to end this crisis.”
The UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, subsequently claried that the UK did not take part in the strikes, urging for restraints from Iran.
“The UK did not participate in these strikes. The U.S. has taken action to alleviate the threat that would pose to the global community. Iran must never have a nuclear weapon.
“We urge Iran to show restraint and reach a diplomatic solution to end the crisis.”
For the EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, she offered support to the destruction of the nuclear sites, but also emphasized diplomacy.
“Iran must never acquire the bomb. With tensions in the Middle East at a new peak, stability must be the priority. And respect for international law is critical.“
Now is the moment for Iran to engage in a credible diplomatic solution. The negotiating table is the only place to end this crisis,” von der Leyen said.
The EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas, echoed a call for restraint, to prevent further escalation of hostilities.
“Iran must not be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon, as it would be a threat to international security. I urge all sides to step back, return to the negotiating table and prevent further escalation.
“EU Foreign Ministers will discuss the situation tomorrow,” she added.
Consequently, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lauded the US strike, calling it “A historic decision”.
“Congratulations, President Trump. Your bold decision to target Iran’s nuclear facilities with the awesome and righteous might of the United States will change history.
“History will record that President Trump acted to deny the world’s most dangerous regime the world’s most dangerous weapons,” Netanyahu said.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran strongly condemned the strikes, threatening “Everlasting consequences”.
Araghchi said, “The United States, a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, has committed a grave violation of the UN Charter, international law and the (nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty) by attacking Iran’s peaceful nuclear installations.
“The events this morning are outrageous and will have everlasting consequences. Each and every member of the UN must be alarmed over this extremely dangerous, lawless and criminal behaviour.
“In accordance with the UN Charter and its provisions allowing a legitimate response in self-defence, Iran reserves all options to defend its sovereignty, interest, and people,” he stated.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel strongly condemned the U.S. move, writing on X, “We strongly condemn the US bombing of Iran’s nuclear facilities, which constitutes a dangerous escalation of the conflict in the Middle East.
“The aggression seriously violates the UN Charter and international law and plunges humanity into a crisis with irreversible consequences,” Díaz-Canel said.