Global Outcry as Iran's Massive Drone Attack on Israel Escalates Tensions
The world is on edge as tensions in the Middle East intensify following Iran's unexpected attack on Israel. As the global community begins to voice its opinions, China has made its stance known with its strengthening ties to Iran.
Apr 14, 2024 | updated: 10:26 AM EDT, April 14, 2024
"China calls on relevant parties to remain calm and exercise restraint to avoid further escalation of tensions," a Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson stated, as quoted by Reuters.
It's noteworthy that China has maintained robust cooperation with Tehran, evidenced by the joint military exercises conducted in the Gulf of Oman by China, Iran, and Russia in March. These exercises are part of a series of similar trilateral drills.
Global reactions pour in condemning Iran's assault
Many Western leaders have already denounced Iran's aggression towards Israel.
President Joe Biden of the USA conveyed, "I just met with my national security team for an update on Iran’s attacks against Israel. Our commitment to Israel’s security against threats from Iran and its proxies is ironclad".
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, in a special release, strongly condemned the Iranian regime's onslaught, stating, "Iran has once again demonstrated that it is intent on to sow chaos".
"Iran's reckless attacks on Israel will only further inflame tensions in the Middle East. The UK calls on the Iranian regime to stop this serious escalation, which is in no one's interest," British Foreign Secretary David Cameron commented on the X platform.
"France condemns in the strongest terms the attack launched by Iran against Israel. By deciding on such an unprecedented action, Iran is taking a new step in its destabilizing actions and taking the risk of a military escalation," French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné elaborated, reaffirming France's solidarity and commitment to Israel's security.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock expressed, "We strongly condemn the ongoing attack, which could plunge an entire region into chaos. Iran and its proxies must stop this immediately. Israel offers our full solidarity at this time."
"The EU strongly condemns the unacceptable Iranian attack against Israel. This is an unprecedented escalation and a grave threat to regional security," posted Josep Borrell, the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen labelled Iran's aggression as "blatant and unjustified," calling for all entities to avoid further escalations and work towards regional stability.
Amidst rising tensions, Iran's attack on Israel stands out
Iran launched over 300 drones and missiles at Israel, with a 99% interception rate, signalling "a significant strategic success," according to the Israeli military on Sunday morning. The offensive, lasting five hours, is recorded as "the largest drone attack in history," CNN reports.
In response, Benjamin Netanyahu signalled Israel's readiness to counterattack directly, stating, "Whoever hurts us, we hurt him".