International Reactions to Israel-Iran Military Escalation, June 13-16

Iran’s leadership has framed its response as a legitimate exercise of self-defense, condemning Israel’s actions and rallying regional support.

MIDDLE EAST — On June 13, 2025, Israel launched "Operation Rising Lion," targeting Iranian nuclear facilities such as Natanz, in response to perceived threats from Iran's nuclear program, as announced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

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Iran retaliated with missile strikes on June 14, 2025, resulting in at least 14 deaths in Israel, including five Ukrainian nationals, according to the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry. U.S. President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social on June 13, 2025, praising the strikes, stating: "I gave Iran chance after chance to make a deal. I told them, in the strongest of words, to 'just do it,' but no matter how hard they tried, no matter how close they got, they just couldn’t get it done."

After the recent strikes by Iran Netanyahu stated on social media, "Iran will pay a very heavy price for the murder of women, children, and innocent civilians – and it will happen soon. I am here at the scene together with the rescue forces and the Home Front Command."

He continued, "On behalf of the people of Israel – we send a hug to the families and once again call on every citizen: obey the instructions – it saves lives. We are in an existential battle, facing a cruel enemy who is planning destruction. Our soldiers and pilots are operating bravely – above the skies of Iran. This is a war of salvation. We will strike them with one blow – and we will win."

On June 15, Netanyahu said in a video update, "Israel is defending freedom in the Middle East and beyond. We're doing so against a tyrannical and radical Iranian regime that wants to build atomic bombs to destroy us and wants to build ballistic missiles, including intercontinental ballistic missiles, to be able to threaten anyone and everywhere in the world."

This rapid escalation has elicited a broad spectrum of international reactions, ranging from condemnation to cautious support, with a prevailing call for de-escalation. The international community has voiced significant concern over the potential for a wider conflict, with reactions reflecting geopolitical alignments and strategic interests.

While some nations and organizations emphasize restraint and diplomacy, others align with either Israel or Iran, highlighting the complexity of the situation.

Global Responses to Israel's Strikes on Iranian Nuclear Facilities