The African Union has stated that the Chairperson of its Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, is deeply concerned by the escalating conflict involving Israel, the United States, and Iran.
On Saturday, Israel and the US launched coordinated strikes against targets inside Iran, marking a major regional security crisis in the wake of the Israel-Hamas conflict. In a retaliatory measure, Iran launched a barrage of missiles toward Israel and Middle Eastern countries hosting US military bases, including Qatar, the UAE, and Bahrain.
The Chairperson has called upon all parties to the conflict to exercise restraint, de-escalate, and engage in dialogue “to safeguard international peace and security.” He warned that further escalation would worsen global security, with serious implications for energy, food security, and African economic resilience. He urged all parties to prioritize diplomatic engagement, including the ongoing mediation efforts in Oman.
Global reactions
Gulf nations hosting US military bases reacted swiftly as their territories were breached by Iranian missiles. Bahrain, the UAE, and Qatar reported being hit by Iranian missile attacks. Saudi Arabia strongly condemned the strikes, calling them a “blatant aggression and a violation of sovereignty.”
The UK expressed fears of the conflict expanding across the wider Middle East, while France called for an urgent meeting of the UN Security Council, stating that the conflict would have serious consequences for international peace and security.
China also criticized the US, describing it as a “war addict” throughout its 240-year history. “The US is the main cause of international disorder, global turbulence, and regional instability,” China Pulse quoted the Chinese Ministry of National Defense as saying.
Russia also condemned the attack, calling it an act of “unprovoked aggression.” This conflict is impacting the Middle East more directly than previous escalations, including the Israel-Hamas war.
