Global Leaders Urge Restraint as Iran-Israel Tensions Escalate

World leaders have urged Iran and Israel to de-escalate tensions after Tehran launched a series of rocket strikes against its long-time adversary. Tehran stated that Tuesday’s attack, coinciding with Israel’s ground offensive against Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon, was a retaliation for the recent deaths of Iran-backed militant leaders.

China issued a statement through a foreign ministry spokesperson, calling for the global community, especially influential powers, to play a constructive role in preventing further escalation.

Calls for Restraint from Moscow

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressed deep concern on Wednesday, warning that the situation was unfolding in the most troubling manner. He urged all parties to exercise restraint and condemned any actions that could result in civilian casualties.

Earlier, Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova criticized the U.S. administration’s handling of the crisis, calling President Joe Biden’s approach a “complete failure.”

She posted on Telegram, stating that the White House’s unclear statements reflected its helplessness in resolving crises.

Pope Francis Appeals for Peace

Pope Francis has called for a day of prayer for peace on October 7, the anniversary of Hamas’ attack on Israel, urging for a cessation of hostilities and a focus on peace.

‘Completely Unacceptable’: US Response

President Biden directed the U.S. military to support Israel’s defense against Iranian aggression and to intercept any missiles aimed at Israel. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken condemned the attack as “completely unacceptable.”

“Initial reports indicate that Israel, with the active backing of the U.S. and other partners, successfully thwarted this assault,” Blinken said.

UN Calls for Ceasefire

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres criticized the growing conflict in the Middle East, particularly with Israel’s confrontation with Hezbollah now escalating alongside its ongoing war with Hamas militants in Gaza.

Guterres called for an end to the violence, stating, “This must stop. We urgently need a ceasefire.”

Israel Pledges Retaliation

In response to the Iranian attack, Israel vowed to retaliate.

“This attack will have consequences. We have plans and will act at a time and place of our choosing,” said Israeli military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari.

Israel declared Guterres “persona non grata” on Wednesday, barring the UN chief from entering the country due to his failure to condemn the missile strike.

Hamas Hails ‘Heroic’ Attacks

Hamas praised Iran’s rocket strikes, framing them as retaliation for the assassinations of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Beirut and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.

The group commended the “heroic rocket launches” by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, calling it “revenge for the blood of our heroic martyrs.”

Spain Calls for Restraint

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez condemned the Iranian missile attacks and urged an end to the escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares echoed the sentiment, issuing “a renewed call to all actors, including Israel, to show restraint and avoid further escalation.”

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